Ulcers are a condition commonly encountered in primary care. However, their management is often complex. Ulcers require a systematic approach to assessment and treatment. That's mostly because they can have various causes, ranging from arterial insufficiency to pressure or diabetic neuropathy. This article is a guide for healthcare providers to help diagnose, treat, and prevent ulcers in a primary care setting.
Ulcers can be broadly categorised into four types:
Proper ulcer assessment includes taking the patient's medical history, wound examination, vascular status check-up, and neuropathy assessment.
The treatment begins with cleaning the ulcer using saline solution (avoiding antiseptics that can delay wound healing). It is important to keep the ulcer moist using appropriate dressings. Foam dressings, hydrocolloids, or hydrogels can help, depending on the ulcer’s characteristics.
For venous ulcers, compression bandages or stockings are recommended unless contraindicated by arterial insufficiency.
Mechanical or autolytic debridement is often the best treatment option in primary care because regular removal of dead tissue promotes faster healing.
Additionally, for diabetic and pressure ulcers, the patient should use appropriate footwear or pressure-relieving devices to reduce ulcer recurrence.
Systemic antibiotics are necessary if there are signs of infection, like redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage. Topical antibiotics are usually avoided to prevent resistance.
If the wound does not respond to standard antibiotic therapy, a wound culture may help identify the right treatment.
Good blood glucose control is essential for diabetic patients. Patients with venous insufficiency may benefit from referral to vascular specialists. Also, smoking cessation, regular exercise, and dietary adjustments can support healing and prevent ulcer recurrence.
If the ulcer does not improve with primary care management, or if there are complications like severe infection or ischemia, a referral to a wound care specialist, podiatrist, or vascular surgeon is strongly recommended.
GPs play a crucial role in managing ulcers. They can prevent complications and reduce the need for specialist intervention. By identifying the type of ulcer, implementing wound care best practices, managing infections, and addressing comorbidities, clinicians can significantly improve patient outcomes. Additionally, patient education and preventive care are essential in reducing ulcer recurrence and enhancing long-term management.
– Dr Rosmy De Barros
For further information on this topic, you may be interested to learn more about the HealthCert online Professional Diploma program in General Dermatology.
Engaging with this blog can help meet your annual
|
How to claim your CPD hoursIf you consume educational webinars, podcasts, articles, or research on this blog, you can Quick Log CPD hours with the RACGP via the usual self-submission process. You will be asked to reflect on what you have learned, and you will require supporting evidence such as a screenshot.Download the RACGP’s guide to self-recording your CPD here. |
References