Wound-care guide · Patients and families
How to track wound changes between visits
A short, consistent record of drainage, pain, odor, redness and treatment can help the clinician recognize a change sooner.
Use the clinician’s measurement method
Do not send photographs through an unsecured public form
What to write down
Keep the record simple enough that it will actually be used.
- Date and time of the dressing change
- Drainage amount, color and odor
- Pain, redness, swelling and surrounding skin
- Fever, appetite, activity and general condition
Photographs and measurements
Photographs can be useful only when they are taken and shared correctly.
- Use the same lighting and distance when instructed
- Include a measurement scale only if the clinician requests it
- Do not rely on a photograph when symptoms are worsening
- Use the secure channel provided by the clinical team
Do not wait for the logCall promptly for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly spreading redness, fever, severe pain or a sudden decline.
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