Acute Wound Care: Principles, Practices, and Patient Recovery
Acute wounds are injuries that occur suddenly and progress through the normal stages of healing within a predictable timeframe. These wounds are commonly caused by surgical procedures, trauma, burns, or accidental cuts and abrasions. Proper acute wound care is essential to prevent complications such as infection, delayed healing, and excessive scarring, while also supporting faster and safer recovery for patients.
Effective wound care begins with understanding the nature of an acute wound. Unlike chronic wounds, which fail to heal in an orderly manner, acute wounds typically follow a clear healing process that includes inflammation, tissue formation, and remodeling. The primary goal of care during this period is to protect the wound environment, manage pain, and support the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
