Patient & Caregiver Education
Healing happens every day, not just on visit day. We teach you, your family and facility staff what to do between visits, in plain language and at your pace.
How it works
Most wound care happens between visits. That is why teaching is part of every visit. We show patients, family members and facility staff how to protect the wound, change simple dressings, use offloading or compression devices and spot warning signs.
We also cover everyday habits that support healing, like nutrition, blood sugar control, skin care and safe ways to move. We use simple steps, show you how and then watch you try. You can ask as many questions as you need.
At your visit
What to expect
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Learn what matters to you
We ask who helps with care, what is hard and what questions you have.
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Show the steps
We show each step slowly, like washing hands, changing a dressing or turning safely.
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Practice together
You or your caregiver try it while we watch and give tips.
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Review warning signs
We go over what is normal, what to report and when to call 911.
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Leave a plan
We leave clear notes on the plan until the next visit, and share needed updates with facility staff.
Benefits
Why it helps
- Builds confidence for patients and families
- Helps keep care the same between visits
- Catches problems sooner
- Can lower the chance of new wounds forming
Between visits
- Keep our care instructions somewhere easy to find.
- Write down questions as they come up and save them for the next visit.
- Wash your hands before and after any wound care.
- Call us whenever you are unsure. It is always OK to ask.
Always follow the care plan and dressing orders from your own clinician.
Questions
Patient & Caregiver Education: common questions
I am nervous about doing wound care. Is that normal?
Yes, many caregivers feel that way at first. We start slowly and practice with you until you feel ready. You do not have to do anything you are not comfortable with.
Do you train facility staff?
Yes. In assisted living, board-and-care homes and skilled nursing facilities, we share the care plan with staff and show them what to watch for.
Can more than one family member join the teaching?
Yes. Anyone who helps with care is welcome to join a visit, with the patient’s permission.
Ready to get a wound looked at?
Tell us about the wound and we will call you to schedule a visit at home or at the facility. Physicians and facilities can send a referral online or by fax.