Evaluating and Managing Open Skin Wounds: Colonization Versus Infection
- 1 August 2002
- journal article
- review article
- Published by AACN Publishing in AACN Advanced Critical Care
- Vol. 13 (3), 382-397
- https://doi.org/10.1097/00044067-200208000-00005
Abstract
Open skin wounds are colonized with bacteria, and optimal wound care is required to prevent progression to infection. Intact skin normally provides protection from external environmental assaults. Disruption of the skin or tissue creating an open skin wound can result in infection, dehydration, hypothermia, scarring, compromised immunity, and changes in body image. Biofilms and bacterial genomics are areas of intense scientific investigation in the face of the emerging threat of bacterial resistance. Optimal wound care to prevent progression from colonization to infection remains the foundation of good clinical practice. On the basis of wound conditions, cleansing, debridement, measures to increase oxygenation and perfusion, adequate nutrition, and appropriate use of topical agents and antibiotics, when indicated, are the keys to managing open skin wounds. This article provides a targeted review of normal skin flora, wound healing, prevention of skin infection, colonization versus infection, biofilms, genomics and infectious disease, and management of open skin wounds.Keywords
This publication has 39 references indexed in Scilit:
- Wound Microbiology and Associated Approaches to Wound ManagementClinical Microbiology Reviews, 2001
- Will genomics revolutionize antimicrobial drug discovery?Current Opinion in Microbiology, 2000
- The genomics of microbial diversity: Editorial overviewCurrent Opinion in Microbiology, 2000
- Phylogenetic Perspectives in Innate ImmunityScience, 1999
- Effects of oil and water baths on the hydration state of the epidermisClinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1990
- Mononuclear phagocytes.BMJ, 1989
- Surgical Wound HealingAORN Journal, 1989
- Effects of relaxation with guided imagery on surgical stress and wound healingResearch in Nursing & Health, 1988
- The effect of washing on the thickness of the stratum corneum in normal and atopic individualsBritish Journal of Dermatology, 1987
- Systemic Medications and Wound HealingInternational Journal of Dermatology, 1982