Early recognition of warning signs allows individuals to seek timely medical advice, which can prevent more severe complications and promote faster healing.
Residents and healthcare professionals should be vigilant for symptoms that may indicate a wound is not healing properly, including:
• pain and heat at the wound
• odour from the wound
• excess fluid from the wound
• slow healing wounds
There are several places in Far West Local Health District where wound care may be provided, including community nursing, outpatient wound clinics, and the Clinical Nurse Consultant Chronic and Complex Wound and Stoma Clinic. Some consultations may also be provided via telehealth if appropriate.
Far West Local Health District Wound and Stoma Clinical Nurse Consultant Megan Jordan said Wound Awareness Week 2024 (2nd – 8th September 2024) and its theme of ‘Prepare, Protect and Heal!’ was a reminder of the importance of wound management.
“Non-healing wounds are a significant health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations,” she said.
“Wound Awareness Week provides an excellent opportunity for us to educate both our staff and the community about the signs of non-healing wounds and the steps they can take to seek help."
To support this, Far West LHD will have healthcare professionals available in the Broken Hill Hospital foyer along with a display during Wound Awareness Week to offer guidance and answer questions, ensuring that both staff and the community are well-informed.
The foyer display will include information brochures for consumers on preventing chronic wounds, pressure injury prevention and management, the signs and symptoms of a chronic wound or wound deterioration.
Staff will also be perfecting their baking skills to partake in the ‘Wounds Awareness Week Big Oozie Bake Off!’
For more information about Wounds Awareness Week and information on wounds call Megan Jordan on 08 8080 2236 or visit the Wounds Australia Wound Awareness Week Website
