{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Wound Care and Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides safe, effective, and evidence-based wound care to individuals receiving domiciliary care. Proper wound management is essential in preventing infections, promoting healing, and improving overall health outcomes. This policy outlines best practices, staff responsibilities, and the procedures for identifying, assessing, treating, and monitoring wounds.

This policy ensures compliance with:

• The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016​.
• Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations concerning the safe provision of healthcare interventions.
• Public Health Wales and NICE guidelines on wound care and infection control.
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, ensuring a safe environment for staff and service users.
• The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, regarding infection control.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees of {{org_field_name}}, including care staff, managers, and supervisors.
• All individuals receiving wound care and management services, including those with pressure ulcers, surgical wounds, chronic wounds, and minor injuries.
• Healthcare professionals, district nurses, and GPs, where collaboration is required.

This policy covers:

• Wound assessment and classification.
• Procedures for wound care and dressing changes.
• Infection prevention and control measures.
• Record-keeping and reporting requirements.
• Staff training and competency in wound management.

3. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to providing high-quality wound assessment, treatment, and management using a person-centred approach. Our goal is to:

• Prevent and minimise wound complications.
• Promote healing through evidence-based practices.
• Ensure wound care is delivered safely, competently, and in compliance with professional guidelines.
• Support collaboration with healthcare professionals to optimise care.

4. Managing Wound Care Efficiently

4.1. Wound Assessment and Classification

Effective wound care starts with a comprehensive wound assessment to determine the severity and appropriate treatment plan.

• All wounds must be assessed upon identification, including:
  • Type of wound (e.g., pressure ulcer, surgical wound, diabetic ulcer, traumatic injury).
  • Size and depth of the wound.
  • Colour and condition of the wound bed (e.g., presence of necrosis, granulation tissue, exudate).
  • Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge.
  • Healing progress, ensuring wounds are monitored and reassessed regularly.
• Wound assessments will be documented in the service user’s care plan, including any observations or concerns.
• If a wound is complex or worsening, a referral to a district nurse or specialist will be made.

4.2. Wound Care and Dressing Changes

Dressing changes must be carried out in a sterile and controlled manner to prevent infection and promote healing. The procedure includes:

1. Gathering necessary supplies, including gloves, antiseptic wipes, dressings, and disposal bags.
2. Hand hygiene before and after wound care to minimise infection risks.
3. Assessing the wound for signs of improvement or deterioration.
4. Cleansing the wound with an appropriate solution, such as saline or prescribed antiseptics.
5. Applying a suitable dressing, ensuring it is secure and appropriate for the wound type.
6. Disposing of used materials properly, following infection control protocols.
7. Recording the procedure, including the date, wound condition, and any actions taken.

4.3. Infection Prevention and Control

To reduce the risk of infection, strict hygiene and infection control procedures must be followed:

• All wound care must be performed using disposable gloves and sterile equipment.
• Care staff must be trained in aseptic wound care techniques to ensure high standards of cleanliness.
• Infected wounds must be reported immediately, and appropriate precautions must be taken to prevent the spread of infection.
• Regular hand hygiene and PPE use must be enforced for all staff conducting wound care.
• Sharps disposal bins will be used where necessary to safely dispose of contaminated materials.

4.4. Reporting and Escalation Procedures

Timely reporting and escalation of concerns are critical in preventing complications. {{org_field_name}} ensures:

• Immediate reporting of any deterioration in a wound’s condition to a district nurse or GP.
• Urgent escalation if a wound shows signs of severe infection, such as fever, increased pain, spreading redness, or unusual discharge.
• Accurate record-keeping in care notes, including wound progress, dressing changes, and any concerns.
• Clear communication with healthcare professionals, ensuring service users receive timely specialist interventions if needed.

4.5. Monitoring and Reviewing Wound Healing

• Each wound will be reviewed regularly, based on the care plan and individual needs.
• Photographic documentation (where consent is given) may be used to track wound healing.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration with healthcare professionals will ensure optimal wound care outcomes.
• Care plans will be updated as wounds heal or if new care strategies are required.

4.6. Staff Training and Competency in Wound Management

To ensure safe and competent wound care, all staff involved in wound management will receive:

• Mandatory wound care training, covering wound types, healing stages, dressing techniques, and infection control.
• Annual refresher training, ensuring knowledge remains up to date with best practices.
• Supervised practical training for staff involved in dressing changes or wound assessment.
• Guidance on when to escalate concerns and seek medical advice.

Only trained and competent staff will be permitted to provide wound care. Complex cases will always be referred to healthcare professionals.

4.7. Supporting Service Users with Wound Care

Providing compassionate care and ensuring dignity and comfort during wound care procedures is essential. {{org_field_name}} ensures that:

• Service users are fully informed about their wound care plan.
• Pain management is considered, ensuring procedures are not distressing.
• Emotional support is provided, particularly for service users with long-term or distressing wounds.
• Family members or advocates are engaged where appropriate, ensuring holistic support.

5. Related Policies

This policy aligns with:

• Infection Prevention and Control Policy (DCW17) – Ensuring hygiene and infection control in wound management.
• Safe Care and Treatment Policy (DCW11) – Covering best practices in care delivery.
• Medication Management and Administration Policy (DCW21) – Including pain management and use of prescribed wound care treatments.
• Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy (DCW13) – Ensuring vulnerable individuals receive appropriate wound care.
• Health and Safety at Work Policy (DCW16) – Covering PPE and safe disposal of wound care materials.

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to:

• Changes in best practice guidelines or CIW regulations.
• New developments in wound care treatments or infection control measures.
• Feedback from service users, staff, or healthcare professionals.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.