Exploring the barriers and effectiveness of larvae therapy in chronic wound management in community nursing

Aim: This paper critically evaluates the effectiveness of larvae therapy, also known as maggot debridement therapy, in managing chronic wounds and its potential for wider implementation within community nursing settings. Larvae therapy, as a biological method of debridement, has been used for centuries, with recent advancements renewing the interest due to its ability to cleanse necrotic tissue effectively. Methodology: The methodological approach follows the PICO framework and includes an integrative literature review process based on the PRISMA guidelines. Findings: Larvee therapy is clinically effective in improving wound healing and dissolving necrotic tissue, yet challenges persist, such as patient/clinician acceptance, stigma, lack of awareness, insufficient training and finances influencing nurse-led management. Conclusion: Enhancing the integration of community nursing practice will require overcoming key barriers. These include, public, nurse and patient acceptance; clinical policy and evidence-based guidelines; continuing professional development; allocation of resources based on cost benefit analysis, while also prioritising further research into patient experience.