Why Is Patient Education Important in Wound Care?

Around 10.5 million people are affected by chronic wounds in the United States. Ensuring patients are well informed about their wound care not only enhances their recovery but also empowers them to take charge of their health.

Patient education and healthcare go hand in hand. Nurses and other healthcare professionals serve as guides for patients impacted by various health conditions to help them heal successfully.

In wound care, this is fundamental — especially for patients with chronic wounds, recovering from surgical procedures, or with comorbidities like diabetes that complicate healing. While medical interventions and treatments are necessary, the role of patient education in wound care is equally as important.

Effective education is a powerful tool for both patients and wound care clinicians. Ottamissiah “Missy” Moore, BSN, RN, WCC, DWC, CHPN, CAEd, a wound care nurse and nurse educator in the Washington, D.C. area, emphasized this.

“Patient education is important because it engages the patient in making decisions about their health,” she said. “It also helps the provider assess how much the patient understands about their wound and what it will take to heal it.”

When patients understand their care, they become empowered to take a more active role, leading to faster healing and a lower risk of complications.

What are the benefits of wound care patient education?

Understanding why patient education is important not only improves treatment outcomes but also long-term success for wound healing. But what other benefits occur when patients are informed about their care?

Patient empowerment and engagement

A primary benefit of wound care patient education is that it encourages patients to take control of their healing and care. By understanding their condition, the steps needed to care for their wounds, and the importance of following prescribed treatments or protocols, patients become more engaged and confident in overseeing their care independently.

According to Moore, patient education also provides a sense of autonomy. Patients are not only more informed about their care, but they have more opportunities to share and discuss what treatments are or aren’t working, she said.

Patients must understand the importance of keeping the wound clean, recognizing signs of infection, and adhering to their prescribed treatment. Educating the patient on how to perform daily wound care tasks, such as changing dressings and monitoring for changes in their wound’s appearance, helps them manage their condition effectively. Education also provides an opportunity for patients to discuss cultural practices and other modalities they may need or use, said Moore.

Reducing the risk of complications

Complications in wound healing can arise from various factors, including lifestyle choices like smoking, improper wound care, and lack of compliance with treatment plans. However, that’s where patient education comes in. To minimize risks like these, clinicians and other healthcare staff provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to care for their wounds properly. In fact, one study on ileostomy patients found that facility readmissions reduced from 28% to 20% over two periods when patients received postoperative education.

For patients, early recognition of complications, such as infection, delayed healing, or wound deterioration, is crucial for preventing more severe problems and ensuring they receive timely intervention. When patients are educated, they can better identify these issues and seek medical attention promptly, making a significant difference in their recovery.

“When patients understand the goals of care and what it will take to heal their wound, they’re very active in their wound care,” Moore said. “They’re more verbal when things are not going well and they’re more alert to complications.”

Improving compliance and treatment adherence

Compliance and adherence to care plans are significant challenges in wound care, particularly when patients are required to perform daily wound care tasks at home. Patient education helps address this challenge by ensuring that patients understand the reasons behind their treatment plan and the correct way to perform wound care.

Another aspect to consider is ensuring patients understand the potential consequences of non-adherence. If the patient does not understand the importance of following their care plan, they may be tempted to skip dressing changes or use non-sterile materials, increasing the risk of infection. Through education, the patient learns the importance of maintaining a sterile environment, following the prescribed dressing schedule, and avoiding activities that could disrupt the wound healing process.

Enhancing communication between patients and clinicians

Effective wound care patient education also fosters better communication between patients and clinicians. When patients are informed about their condition and treatment plan, they’re more likely to ask questions, express concerns, and share more information about their wound’s progress. Open communication is essential for adjusting treatment plans, addressing issues early, and ensuring that the patient’s needs are met.

For example, a patient who understands the expected healing timeline for their wound is more likely to communicate any deviations to their healthcare provider. This allows the clinician to investigate and address any underlying issues, such as an infection or the need for a different treatment approach, improving the patient’s overall care.

Why is patient education important: Strategies for wound care clinicians

To maximize the benefits of patient education in wound care, healthcare professionals must employ effective strategies that cater to the individual needs of each patient. Here are some strategies to consider:

1.     Tailor education to the patient’s needs

Patient education should be personalized based on the patient’s condition, level of understanding, and specific needs. This may involve using visual aids, written instructions, or hands-on demonstrations to ensure the patient fully comprehends the information. For example, a patient who has limited literacy skills may benefit more from visual aids and demonstrations rather than written materials.

2.     Provide clear and concise information

With care instructions, ensure you communicate clearly and concisely. Avoid using medical jargon that may confuse the patient and break down complex information into manageable steps. For example, instead of simply instructing a patient to “maintain proper wound hygiene,” explain what that entails — how to clean the wound, change the dressing, and ways to practice infection prevention.

3.     Encourage questions and active participation

Encourage patients to ask questions and actively participate in their wound care education. This fosters better understanding and retention of information. When wound care clinicians and other healthcare professionals create a trusting and supportive environment, patients feel more comfortable expressing concerns or asking for clarification.

One study highlighted that building rapport and trust with patients, practicing cultural competence, and engaging in empowering actions such as the “teach-back” technique helps achieve this. For instance, after explaining a wound care procedure, the provider might ask, “Do you feel confident that you can do this at home, or would you like to practice together?”

4. Use technology for ongoing education

Technology can be a valuable tool for ongoing patient education. Telehealth appointments, educational videos, and smartphone apps that provide reminders, visual aids, and instructions can help reinforce wound care education and support patients in managing their wounds. In fact, patients who engaged in educational web-based programs were 11% more knowledgeable about their medical procedure, according to a study.

Whether it’s a wound care app that provides step-by-step instructions on dressing changes or a video providing directions for postsurgical care, technology can be an invaluable resource for patients who need a refresher on the proper technique or more instruction on care procedures.

5.     Involve family members and caregivers

In cases where patients require assistance with wound care, involving family members, guardians, or caregivers in the education process is beneficial.

“Family members and caregivers are an important part of the treatment plan,” said Moore. “They’re given instructions to provide wound care in case the patient is unable to do it. They’re also educated to look for complications or adverse reactions.”

This ensures that those providing care understand the wound care procedures and can help the patient adhere to their treatment plan. For example, if an older patient has difficulty performing wound care tasks, you should teach a caregiver how to assist with dressing changes and wound monitoring.

Educating patients is a must in wound care, leading to improved treatment results. When clinicians equip patients with the necessary information and resources to properly manage their wounds, they can promote better healing and improve the overall patient experience.