Regardless of where you work, a structured approach to wound care is essential. Accurately identifying wound aetiology, structures and affected functions is crucial for providing effective treatment. Furthermore, the treatment you provide in the initial phases of wound healing can have a direct impact on the healing process as a whole and the long-term outcome for the patient.

In this course, we will look at how to accurately assess and manage wounds in the out-of-hospital environment. By the end of the course, you should be able to:

• Recall the basic structure and function of the skin.
• Identify the physiology of wound healing, define the phases of wound healing, and relate this to the clinical presentation of a wound.
• Analyse the key factors that promote and delay wound healing.
• Evaluate wounds based on standard criteria and a structured approach.
• Describe and define the correct use of various wound dressings and select the most appropriate dressing available that promotes wound healing.
• Recognise basic differences in aetiology for various wounds.
• Appreciate the significance of the paramedic's role in effective wound management.
• Be aware of the consequences of chronic wounds and the impact they have on a patient’s daily life.