Wound Care Resources

Wound care in the UK has long been overlooked, often treated as a consequence of underlying health conditions rather than a distinct medical concern. However, as the prevalence of chronic wounds continues to rise, it is becoming increasingly evident that this perspective is unsustainable. Chronic wounds impact around 7% of the UK population, imposing a substantial burden on both patients and the healthcare system, with the NHS spending over £8.3 billion annually to manage the issue (Making wound care work: 9). Despite these alarming figures, wound care services remain understaffed and undervalued, straining to meet the rising demand for their expertise (Making wound care work: 4).

Wound management can be challenging, with both clinicians and patients wanting to follow care pathways and treatment regimens that promote wound healing. The National Wound Care Strategy Programme (NWCSP) for lower limbs endorses the use of compression garments, such as leg ulcer hosiery kits and compression wraps, to utilise NHS resources in the most effective way, and encourages patient participation where possible (NWCSP, 2020). This article looks at the pro-active work of a general practice nurse (GPN) team in Bristol, who shared their wound care expertise with local colleagues by showcasing good practice and pathways together in a new style leg clinic.

When most people think of a pharmacist, they immediately think of a person who stands behind a counter and dispenses medicines with instructions for use. But, the role of the pharmacist is changing. They have been identified as having a key role in delivering the NHS Long Term Plan. Within the speciality of wound care and compression therapy, pharmacists are ideally placed to offer advice and support in the management of simple wounds, such as cuts and grazes, blisters, lacerations and minor burns. They are also able to support the delivery of venous leg ulcer management by supplying compression therapy as first-line treatment as soon as possible.This article explores recent developments for pharmacists and how their role could free up general practitioner (GP), general practice nurse (GPN) and community nurse time.