The Alliance of Wound Care Stakeholders's blog

By Catherine D’Andrea, RDN, LDN, and Marcia Nusgart, RPh

Malnutrition is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among older hospitalized adults, yet it often goes undiagnosed and therefore untreated. It has been established that malnourished hospitalized patients experience slower wound healing, higher risks of infection, and longer length of stay. Malnutrition is a burdensome condition associated with a 34% higher cost for a hospital stay compared with a non-malnourished patient. Sufficient macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fats, and water) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are vital for the body to support tissue integrity and prevent breakdown. Research supports that weight loss and difficulties with eating can increase the incidence of pressure injuries.

By Marcia Nusgart, RPh; Lee C. Rogers, DPM; Mark D. Iafrati, MD, FACS; Paul J. Kim, DPM, MS, FACFAS; Karen Ravitz, JD; Stephanie Woelfel, PT, DPT, CWS, FACCWS; and Emily Greenstein, APRN,CNP, CWON

On May 7, 2020, the Alliance of Wound Care Stakeholders presented a round table discussion with frontline experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities clinicians are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion reviewed the significant changes wound care professionals are undergoing, a review of relevant regulatory flexibilities, and the Alliance's role in ensuring that wound care is identified as "essential" care, rather than "elective." A question and answer session followed the panels' discussion; the following represents some of the most frequently asked questions.