News
Beebe Director Published in Journal
11/18/02
The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society sought the clinical management approach of Bonnie L. Cunningham, MS, RN, CWON, CS, Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, for publication in its July 2002 Journal. Ms. Cunningham is the Director of Beebe Medical Center’s Wound Care Services and Diabetes Management at the Longneck Health Center.
As part of a regular feature called “Options in Practice,” the Journal invites submissions of case descriptions, including the specialty nursing care provided, then contacts other wound, ostomy or continence care nurses for different approaches to difficult clinical situations. Ms. Cunningham’s management approach for a patient with compartment syndrome of the lower extremity (severe leg trauma) was selected for publication.
In addition to specific clinical alternatives to the treatment performed, Ms. Cunningham’s recommendation stressed that a thorough assessment and team approach are critical for successful wound management. Factors such as diabetes mellitus, immune system diseases, medications, nutrition, and the patient’s physiological state could impede healing. Ms. Cunningham emphasized the importance of communication among care providers, the patient, and family to achieve the best possible outcomes for each individual’s situation.
“Lower extremity ulcers can be very complex and difficult to manage. I believe it is important to consider a variety of approaches before selecting the most appropriate course of treatment,” stated Ms. Cunningham.
For more information about Beebe Medical Center’s Diabetes Management Program or Wound Care Services Department, please call (302) 947-2500.
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