Wound-care guide · Patients and families
Mobile wound care at home: what to expect
A home visit should feel organized, not mysterious. The clinician reviews the wound and current orders, completes the visit and explains who is responsible for the next step.
The visit includes treatment, documentation and instruction
Responsibilities between visits should be written down
During the visit
The clinician may review the medical history, measure the wound, assess tissue and surrounding skin, complete ordered treatment and explain what to watch between visits.
- Have the patient’s medication list and current orders available
- Keep wound supplies and device information together
- Identify the person who changes dressings between visits
- Provide contact information for the responsible clinician
What a home visit does not replace
Some needs require a hospital, surgeon, vascular specialist, podiatrist, imaging center or emergency department. A home visit should not delay those services.
- Uncontrolled bleeding or severe systemic symptoms
- A cold, blue or black foot or sudden loss of circulation
- A deep surgical complication or exposed internal tissue
- Diagnostic testing or procedures that require a facility
Emergency symptomsCall 911 for uncontrolled bleeding, severe breathing difficulty, sudden confusion or another life-threatening emergency.
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