VCW1104 - Management of acute wounds

Leader(s): TBC

Offered

Parkville First semester 2009 (Off-campus)
Parkville Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit provides students with a greater understanding and skills to effectively manage acute wounds such as surgical wounds, thermal injuries and traumatic wounds. Students will gain a broader understanding of techniques used to assess acute wounds, the role of infection, exudate production, and how to achieve better health outcomes, preventing complications, limiting scarring and restoring normal activities.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit students will be able to:

• Identify and describe the types of acute wounds;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the factors that may delay or interfere with healing of acute wounds and potentially lead to chronicity;
• Discuss infection in acute wounds and strategies for prevention;
• Investigate methods of turning chronic into acute wounds;
• Discuss wound closure techniques, methods and materials;
• Examine techniques in the management of acute wounds, including various forms of wound debridement and topical negative pressure.

Assessment

Minor assignment (30%), major written assignment (60%), participation in online tutorials (10%)

Prerequisites

VCW1101; VCW1102; VCW1103