Issues in Contemporary Wound Management: Evaluation of Knowledge and Practices among Nurses in Two Municipalities in Osun State, Nigeria

Introduction: Issues around wound management is constantly evolving with introduction of newer approaches based on evidence. Nurses’ knowledge about the contemporary issues have been reported differently. The aim of this descriptive study was to examine the wound management knowledge of nurses prior to a skills building workshop. Materials and methods: A descriptive study of 317 nurses who attended a preconference skill acquisition workshop on contemporary issues in management of chronic wounds was undertaken in May, 2012. Participants were nurses working in different hospitals in Ife and Osogbo municipalities in Osun State, Nigeria. Data collected included types of wounds and common management strategies. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 15.0, and presented using frequencies and percentages. Results and discussion: The mean age of nurses was 41.8 ± 9.0 years. Of the 317 nurses, 97 (30.3%) had university degree while 159 (50%) had diploma certificates in nursing. Majority110 (35%) practiced in community and home based care, with 184 (58%) in primary healthcare facilities. Respondents treated both chronic and acute wounds in their practice; ranging from puncture wounds (38.8%), lacerations (65.4%), leg ulcers (44%) and pressure ulcer (10%). The mean knowledge score on wound care practices was 23.0 ± 14.0. Only 6% of the respondents had a good knowledge of wound care practices (i.e. score >50). The mean wound assessment practice score was 21.1±14.2. Only 5% of the respondents had a good wound assessment practice. Conclusion: Despite the plethora of information on wound care practices, respondents in this study demonstrated low levels of knowledge regarding contemporary wound care practices. There is therefore an urgent need for continuing education programs in healthcare facilities to enhance knowledge translation and effective wound care practice.