VAC Therapy versus Traditional Wound Dressing: Comparative Effects of Nursing Training Program on Patients' Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Nurses should have adequate training about appropriate dressing selection to enhance the quality of life for patients with chronic wound. Aim; To assess the effects of Nursing Program about Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy versus Traditional Wound Dressing, on Patients' Outcomes. Method: Design; Quasi-experimental (Preposttest), a comparative research design between both groups. Setting: The trauma departments and outpatients' clinic at Assiut University Hospital. Subjects: Total coverage of nurses (N.= 40) and a randomized 60 patients with (chronic wound), both groups nurses and patients were divided into two equal groups. Tools: (I) Nurses' interview questionnaire (demographic characteristics, knowledge, and observation checklist), (II): Patients' assessment (personnel and clinical data) and (III): Patients' outcomes sheet; Bates-jensen wound assessment scale and WoundQuality of life scale. Results: A statistically significant difference between nurses' knowledge and practice pre and post-test. Also, between the traditional wound dressing and VAC therapy groups regarding their outcomes (wound healing and wound quality of life) with a positive correlation between them. Conclusion: The nursing program had a positive effect on nurses` knowledge, practice and on patients' outcomes who managed with VAC therapy were better than the other group who managed with the traditional wound dressing. Recommendations: Continuous instructions and in-service training programs in the trauma departments to improve nurses' knowledge and practice. Apply VAC therapy in managing chronic wound for a better healing and high quality of life.