Wound Management for Veterinary Technicians

Overview:

Veterinary technicians play an important role in the initial assessment, stabilization, treatment and management of patients and their wounds. Veterinary technicians will gain an overview on how to identify and manage common wounds seen in their patients. Types of wounds, phases of healing, factors affecting their healing and wound strength, the classification of wounds and initial and continuing wound care will be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

• Identification of the nature and type of wound encountered in the veterinary patient in order to prepare for and implement treatment and care and healing correctly.
• Evaluation and definition of the classification or condition of the wound at patient presentation will dictate the level of wound care and treatment needed.
• Recognition and understanding of the phase of healing the wound is in at presentation will determine the course of wound care and treatment.
• The ability to determine and identify factors that will affect healing of the wound is an important part of assessing and developing the wound care and treatment plan.
• Demonstrate the knowledge and ability to prepare for and perform the four stages of wound care at patient presentation.
• Determine the type of closure needed based on previously defined type, classification, healing phase and factors affecting the wound.
• Identify the factors that require the wound to remain open and heal by second or third intention.
• Review types of wound drains used, indications and contraindications of each.
• Understand the concept of vacuum-assisted closure, uses and contraindications.