Wound Care

Caring for wounds after surgery or which arise from conditions like diabetes can be a complicated, often frustrating process, especially for homebound seniors whose mobility, dexterity or eyesight may be limited. Healing wounds, burns, pressure ulcers and skin tears can be painful and often require frequent dressing changes, medicinal or other treatments a few times a week, and family helpers such as spouses or children may be unavailable or uncomfortable with the task.

Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice has Wound Care Certified (WCC) nurses who specialize in wound care in patients’ homes, and who are trained to handle ongoing maintenance related to diabetes, colostomy and lymphedema as well as post-surgical wound care. Nurses help homebound and disabled patients care for wounds requiring extended healing periods, and if necessary employ specialized machines such as Wound-Vacs. They also take vital signs, measure and photograph wounds to assess healing progress and remain in constant communication with a patient’s current physician(s) to help inform medication or pain management needs.

A VNA & Hospice wound care nurse usually manages approximately 25 visits per week in Hampshire County. Visits are arranged through referrals by physicians, surgeons, or other specialists.