It depends on the wound and the doctor’s advice. Many surgical wounds need daily or alternate-day dressings initially. Some modern dressings can stay for 3-5 days if they’re not soaked (which is great for patient comfort). Infected wounds might need daily or even twice daily in some cases (though we try to use dressings that last to reduce frequency).

Yes for vacuum (negative pressure) therapy – we have the capability to manage that at home. We either provide a portable VAC device (might be an extra rental cost, but we arrange it) or manage it if the hospital has given one. Our nurses are trained in how to apply the foam, seal the drape, and connect the machine with correct pressure settings. We’ll also monitor the machine’s function, change the canister, etc.

We take several steps to minimize pain: Before removal of an old dressing, we often moisten it with saline if it’s stuck. This loosens it gently. We encourage deep breathing or a distraction (like listening to some music) for the patient. We are slow and gentle in our motions; no rough tugging. If a wound is particularly painful, we can schedule a pain medication about 30 minutes before the dressing change (we’ll advise the doctor to prescribe if needed, or if patient already has a pain med we’ll suggest timing it).

If our nurse notices signs of infection increased redness, warmth, swelling, foul odor, pus, or the patient develops fever we will promptly inform you and the doctor. We might take a wound swab for culture if the doctor orders, so the exact bacteria and right antibiotic can be identified. For infections, doctors often prescribe antibiotics; we can help start those (including IV antibiotics at home if needed, since we also provide IV services one of the perks of our comprehensive home care, we can integrate services).