Healing Heroes – Wound Care Champion Program Will Make a “Significant” Difference in Patient Outcomes

Patients at Lakeridge Health will benefit from enhanced wound and pressure injury care, thanks to a new Wound Care Champion program.  

A group of 55 health-care professionals recently completed the Wound Care Champion program – an educational initiative that aims to empower nurses, physicians, therapists, and other allied health team members with a thorough understanding of wound care principles and best practices. What’s more, the program is an important part of the pressure injury Best Practice Guideline that Lakeridge Health has implemented as part of being a Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario Best Practice Spotlight Organization. 

The comprehensive program covers a wide range of topics, such as classifying wound types, assessment techniques, interventions and treatments, and infection control measures, as well as patient education and support related to wound management.  

“This expertise allows team members to provide high-quality care to patients with acute or chronic wounds, thus promoting faster healing, reducing complications, and enhancing the quality of life for patients dealing with wounds,” explained Taleen Encarnacao, Clinical Practice Leader for Interprofessional Practice.  

“Skilled professionals in wound care can make a significant difference in patient recovery and overall health outcomes,” added Leslie Richards, Wound Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, Interprofessional Practice. “Their knowledge helps in preventing future wounds and managing chronic conditions that predispose individuals to such injuries.” 

The program consists of four workshops, each spanning a duration of four hours, and involves a combination of lectures, workshops, hands-on training, and case studies, as well as quizzes and assessments. Upon completion, participants earn the title of ‘Wound Care Champion.’ 

“The process of becoming a Wound Care Champion allows participants to acquire practical skills that enable them to turn their knowledge into action,” noted Taleen. 

A second Wound Care Champion program is currently underway and scheduled to be completed in late March. Intake for a third session is also in the works with plans to continue the program thereafter.