Background: Wound management is more than the application of a dressing. It requires a comprehensive and informed approach to the assessment of the patient, their wound and their healing environment
Objective: This article outlines a systematic approach to guide assessment and management of chronic wounds.
Discussion: An international advisory panel has developed a framework for assessment and management of chronic wounds, known as wound bed preparation. The steps in this framework include tissue assessment and the management of nonviable tissue or tissue deficits, inflammation and infection control, maintenance of moisture balance, and the promotion of epithelial advancement of wound edges. The acronym 'TIME' is a useful aid for these steps. In addition, good wound care involves assessment of the surrounding skin and wound dimensions, and documentation of the wound healing process and treatments used. Dressing choice depends on this assessment and the characteristics of the wound. Goals of care include the need to consider the patient, their wound and their healing environment.