“Every day, nearly half a million Australians suffer from a chronic wound, with the cost of managing this close to $3 billion annually,” said Megan Jordan, Clinical Nurse Consultant Wound Management, Far West LHD.
“Despite this, wounds remain a silent epidemic. Wounds can affect people at any stage of life, however, the most concerning are wounds that don’t heal, and go on to ulcerate, such as venous leg ulcers,” she said.
“However, most of these wounds are completely treatable with the right care from a healthcare professional who is up to date with evidence based, best practice treatment,” said Mrs Jordan.
Wound Awareness Week is Wounds Australia’s most significant annual campaign to improve awareness of chronic wounds and influence wound management policy.
The aim is to target awareness of chronic wounds among health care professionals and the general public, highlighting:
- the extent of this hidden affliction
- vulnerable cohorts most at risk
- warning signs (pain, fluid, smell, over 30 days to heal)
- treatment options
- where to go for education and resources.
It also aims to improve decision makers’ awareness of the economic and social cost of chronic wounds.
The Broken Hill Health Service foyer will during the week have a display with information brochures for consumers to bring awareness to preventing chronic wounds, pressure injury prevention and management, the signs and symptoms of a chronic wound or wound deterioration.
Community members that have recently experienced having a chronic wound and would like to share their journey of wound care, are welcome to contact Megan Jordan on 08 8080 2236.
For more information about Wounds Awareness Week and information on wounds to go www.woundaware.com.au or call Megan Jordan on 08 8080 2236.