(CS-012) Modern Wound Dressing Technique Saves Diabetes Mellitus Patient from Limb Amputation

Demilade Omotoyinbo, Bachelor of Nursing Science – Nursing Officer, Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex

Introduction: Wound is capable of causing pain, disturbing individual emotions and reducing productivity. Mrs F, a 49 year old was admitted on account of poorly healing chronic foot ulcer diagnosed of diabetic neuropathy with peripheral vascular disease. From Assessment, the wound measured 10cm by 8cm in length and breadth. Despite managing the wound with traditional method, the size and depth of the wound continued to increase with associated copious, offensive and purulent wound discharge with erythema on the surrounding skin.

Methods: On-going wound assessment and daily dressing was done for a week then changed to alternate days till discharge. Wound swabs for microscopic culture and sensitivity was regularly conducted with appropriate antimicrobial. An anti-biofilm agent was introduced when the wound was becoming recalcitrant. Skin friendly plasters were used to dress the wound coupled with ensuring appropriate dietary regimen.

Results: Mrs F was initially booked for amputation. However, neither amputation nor Skin Grafting was done as initially planned. The limb was salvaged by wound healing alone

Discussion: The practice setting where the research was conducted majorly uses the traditional approach to wound management. This research is to advocate modern wound dressing as the standard to be upheld and followed in the practice setting.