Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Wound Care
A study published in the Journal of Palliative Medicine examines the high burden of wounds among patients receiving palliative care and hospice, where factors such as immobility, functional decline, malnutrition, disease progression, and age-related skin changes increase risk. These wounds can cause significant suffering through pain, odor, drainage, reduced function, and psychological distress.
To address this challenge, a multidisciplinary panel, including palliative care clinicians, geriatricians, geropsychologists, and wound-care specialists, developed practical guidance for assessment and management. The study emphasizes a holistic, interdisciplinary approach grounded in prognosis and goals of care, along with tailored strategies to manage symptoms and improve comfort. The authors conclude that individualized, goal-concordant wound care can meaningfully reduce both physical and emotional distress for patients and caregivers.