Creating a framework for shared wound care among patients and clinicians

Forecasting indicates that the National Health Service in England may face a workforce shortage of up to 360,000 staff by 2036, reflecting challenges that resonate with wider international concerns. This means that wound care must evolve if it is to remain safe, effective and sustainable. One approach that could help is involving patients and carers more closely in their own wound care as evidence suggests that patients want to feel informed, involved and supported in playing a more active role in their wound care. When combined with the right dressing technology, shared wound care could release up to 3.5 billion hours of nursing time globally by 2030. Although many healthcare practitioners already support aspects of shared care, it has not yet become routine. This article sets out the foundations for how shared wound care can become routine practice. Incorporating evidence from key published studies, insights from a key opinion leaders-led 'Hackathon', and input from a patient focus group, work has been undertaken to shape what shared wound care could look like in real-world clinical practice. Practical ideas from the Hackathon included: a clinician checklist; a simplified wound care diary (with the option of a patient contract); visual explainers to show what shared wound care looks like in practice; and step-by-step guides for the care of different wound types. Feedback from the patient focus group showed that patients want to be empowered. With the right support and materials, such as wound diaries and change indicators, patients can often manage their wound care confidently and safely, positively improving their quality of life.