Skilled Nurses are licensed to assess, care for, and treat clients’ wounds. The services they provide differ depending on the requirements of each client, but their general responsibilities include wound debridement, cleaning, dressing, bandaging, and working with the client’s doctor to figure out if the client requires other more specialized treatment like surgery. Our wound care nurse in Columbia, Maryland may also educate the client, their family caregivers, and other carers on proper wound care, including infection prevention and other considerations for appropriate management. Skilled nurses are also qualified to offer ostomy care, diabetic foot care, pressure ulcer care, and the monitoring of other conditions that may affect the healing process.
Skilled nurses perform wound assessment, cleaning, debridement, dressing changes, and bandaging to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
Ostomy & Stoma Care:
We provide expert assistance with colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies, ensuring proper stoma care, appliance changes, and education for long-term management.
Diabetic Foot & Pressure Ulcer Care:
Our nurses specialize in diabetic wound management and pressure sore prevention and treatment, helping patients avoid complications like infections or amputations.
Infection Monitoring & Prevention:
We closely track wounds for signs of infection, intervene early, and educate caregivers on best practices for infection prevention.
Condition Monitoring:
Certain health conditions—like diabetes, poor circulation, and immune disorders—can delay healing. Our skilled nurses monitor these conditions, working with doctors to adjust care as needed.
Pain Management & Comfort Care:
We assess pain levels, administer prescribed medications, and recommend non-medication pain relief techniques to keep patients comfortable.
Patient & Family Education:
We empower patients and caregivers with step-by-step guidance on wound care, dressing changes, and warning signs to watch for at home.
Physician Collaboration:
Our skilled nurses work directly with physicians to adjust treatment plans, recommend advanced wound care if needed, and ensure a smooth healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of infection in a wound, and what should I do?
Signs of infection include redness, swelling, warmth, increased pain, pus drainage, foul odor, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your skilled nurse or doctor immediately. Early intervention can prevent serious complications and speed up recovery.
What types of wounds and conditions do skilled nurses treat?
Our skilled nurses care for surgical wounds, chronic wounds, pressure ulcers (bedsores), diabetic foot ulcers, burns, traumatic injuries, and ostomy-related wounds. They also help manage conditions that affect healing, such as diabetes, poor circulation, and compromised immune function.
What should I expect during a skilled nursing visit for wound care?
During a skilled nursing visit, the nurse will assess the wound, checking for signs of healing or infection. They will clean the wound, apply fresh dressings, and administer any necessary treatments, such as debridement or medication. If the wound is slow to heal or shows signs of complications, the nurse may adjust the care plan in collaboration with the patient’s doctor. Additionally, skilled nurses provide education on proper wound care, lifestyle adjustments, and preventative measures to promote faster recovery. If needed, they may also coordinate with physical therapists, dietitians, or other specialists to support overall healing.
How do skilled nurses support diabetic patients with wound care?
Diabetic wounds require specialized care to prevent complications like slow healing, infections, and ulcers. Skilled nurses provide diabetic foot care, wound monitoring, and blood sugar management support to help prevent serious issues such as amputations or severe infections.
How often will a skilled nurse visit for wound care?
The frequency of skilled nursing visits depends on the severity of the wound and the physician’s recommendations. Some patients may need daily wound care, while others may require weekly check-ins. Our team assesses each case individually to determine the most effective care schedule.
Do you have more questions for us? Let us answer them for you. You may send us a message or give us a call.