What Should Families Know About Caring for Wounds at Home Between Nurse Visits?
Families play a vital role in supporting wound healing at home between nurse visits. While home health nurses provide professional care and advanced treatments, daily attention and vigilance from caregivers can help prevent complications and speed recovery. Here’s what families should know and do to ensure safe, effective wound care at home.
Follow the Care Plan
- Always follow the instructions left by your home health nurse. Each wound may have specific needs for cleaning, dressing changes, and activity restrictions.
- Never substitute your own products or methods without checking with the nurse or doctor first.
Maintain Cleanliness and Hygiene
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after any wound care or dressing changes.
- Keep the wound covered and dry unless otherwise directed.
Dressing Changes
- Change dressings only as instructed. Do not change them too often, as this can disrupt healing.
- Have all supplies ready before beginning. Use only the dressings and materials recommended by your nurse.
- Dispose of old dressings in a sealed plastic bag and wash your hands afterward.
Watch for Warning Signs
- Contact your nurse if you notice increased redness, swelling, warmth, odor, discharge, pain, fever, or if the wound appears larger or deeper.
Encourage Nutrition and Hydration
- Good nutrition and adequate hydration are essential for wound healing. Encourage a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Promote Mobility and Comfort
- Help the senior change position regularly to relieve pressure on the wound, especially if they are bedridden or have limited mobility.
- Provide pain relief as prescribed or use comfort measures recommended by the care team.
Keep Supplies Stocked
- Work with your nurse to ensure you have enough clean dressings, gloves, and other supplies on hand between visits.
When to Call for Help
- Reach out to your home health nurse or agency immediately if you see any signs of infection or if you’re unsure how to perform a task safely.
For more tips on wound care at home and a checklist for families, visit our Wound Care resource page.
