Wound care reference

[PurdueBoiler]

Hello, all!! I work in a LTC facility, on a unit for residents with a DD/MR primary diagnosis.I am looking for suggestions for a quality would d care/ skin issues reference text. We do not have a wound care nurse in our facility. We do, of course, have a medical director, who is responsible for 2 other facilities, as well as his own family practice. Eyes on, first line txs are dependent on the nurses- with phone calls made to the physician for orders, who often depends on us for suggestions, especially in regards to skin issues. Complicated or more serious issues will garner a visit from our director, or a consult with the wound care facility in our area. I understand the importance of not working outside my licensure, so it is not necessary to point out the downside to this sorry state of affairs. We have had a licensed wound care nurse previously in our facility, and are looking to fill this position again. In the meantime, can any of you suggest a good reference book for wound care? There is an overabundance of cleansers, txs, dressings, etc, available, and I would like a reference available to fall back on. I am NOT looking to bypass licensed wound care knowledge and expertise. Anything potentially complex, we will consult with a certified physician and staff. I'm just tired of the standard, "slap some zguard BID" and hope for the best. It seems we could do better in our first line care, and I am open to suggestions for reference texts. Thank you!!

[michksmith14, MSN, RN]

The WOCN has a set of textbooks that are great. The Core Curriculum - Wound Management is an excellent resource that is thorough and easy to understand. They also have texts for Ostomy and Continence management as well. You can purchase it on their website and probably at Barnes & Noble or Amazon.