Understanding infection in wound care

Abstract

The goal when managing any wound, whether it is acute or chronic, is to achieve wound closure as soon as possible. The process by which wounds heal is complicated and delicate. In order for wound healing to occur, the body needs to allow all the four phases of wound healing (haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and regeneration) to run their course, uninterrupted. One of the major contributing factors to delayed healing in major or minor, acute and chronic wounds, is the presence of bacteria. This article will consider the classification of wound infection, as well as what role bacteria play in the management, and subsequent treatment decisions, of wounds.