Wound care training for pharmacists and pharmacy assistants
Wound care is an essential yet often overlooked aspect of healthcare, and pharmacists are increasingly stepping into a pivotal role in managing minor acute wounds in the community. As a pharmacist and wound care consultant, Lusi Sheehan’s mission as The Wound Educator is to improve wound care literacy among pharmacists and allied health professionals. Now, with training available on the LRNRX platform, pharmacists and their teams have access to cutting-edge education to expand their scope of practice.
Why Wound Care Matters for Pharmacists
Pharmacists are frequently the first healthcare professionals consulted for wound management. Patients often approach pharmacists for advice on wounds caused by cuts, abrasions, burns, or skin tears. This makes it critical for pharmacists to have the skills to assess, manage, and refer wounds appropriately.
By understanding best practices, pharmacists can ensure wounds are managed effectively from the outset, reducing the risk of infection, chronic wounds, and delayed healing.
Types of Wounds Pharmacists Can Manage
With the right training, pharmacists can confidently provide services for various types of wounds, including:
- Acute wounds: Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions.
- Burns: First-degree burns and minor blistering.
- Skin tears: Common in elderly patients.
- Post-surgical wounds: Basic aftercare and dressing changes.
- Infected wounds: Managing local infections with topical antimicrobials.
The Expanding Scope of Practice for Pharmacists
In line with recent trials, like the Queensland Community Pharmacist Scope of Practice Pilot, pharmacists are gaining the ability to provide wound assessments, cleansing, and even minor wound closures using advanced techniques such as tissue adhesives and sutures. With additional training, pharmacists can also advise on pharmacotherapy, including pain management and the appropriate use of antibiotics or topical antimicrobials.
Training Available on LRNRX
Pharmacists play a pivotal role in wound care management, bridging the gap between patients and optimal healing. Our training video, led by wound care expert Lusi, equips pharmacists and pharmacy teams with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently assess, manage, and educate on acute wound care. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Understanding the Pharmacist’s Role in Wound Care
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How to provide wound care assessments and first aid.
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The importance of triaging to allied health professionals for complex or red-flag wounds.
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How the Queensland Community Pharmacist Scope of Practice Pilot has expanded pharmacists' responsibilities in wound care.
Wound Assessment and Treatment
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Methods to assess wounds when patients seek advice for creams, antiseptics, or dressings.
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Techniques for wound cleansing, including the use of saline, gauze, and antiseptics.
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Insights into wound closure options, such as tissue adhesives and sutures, as part of expanded practice.
Best Practices in Dressing Selection
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How to choose and apply dressings for different wound types, including foam dressings, hydrofibers, and antimicrobial products.
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Understanding the role of secondary dressings for added protection and healing.
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Practical tips for managing challenging wounds, such as burns, skin tears, and infected wounds.
Collaborative and Patient-Centred Care
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Strategies for collaborating with allied health professionals for further wound care management.
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Educating patients on effective wound healing practices, including maintaining a moist wound environment.
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Dispelling common myths like “letting wounds air dry” and overusing cytotoxic antiseptics.
Real-Life Case Scenarios
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Examples of wound care progression, showcasing the importance of proper assessment and treatment.
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How to handle common scenarios, such as grazes, burns, and lacerations, with evidence-based solutions.
Setting Up a Pharmacy-Based Wound Care Service
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Steps to establish a wound care service in your pharmacy.
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Required education and training to ensure competency and compliance with expanded practice regulations.
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Opportunities to improve patient outcomes and increase pharmacy service offerings.
By the end of the video, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to assess and manage minor wounds confidently, collaborate effectively, and educate patients for better outcomes.
