Pharmacists play a crucial role in wound care by providing guidance on wound management and selecting appropriate wound care products.

INTRINSIC FACTORS

Intrinsic factors are those that are inherent to the patient, such as:

• Age: Older adults tend to have slower wound healing due to several factors, including decreased blood flow, impaired immune function, and chronic medical conditions.
• Nutrition: A well-balanced diet is essential for wound healing. Patients with malnutrition are at increased risk for wound complications.
• Vascular insufficiency: Decreased blood flow to the wound can delay healing. This can be caused by peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or other medical conditions.
• Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer, can also delay wound healing.
• Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs, can interfere with wound healing.

EXTRINSIC FACTORS

Extrinsic factors are those that are external to the patient, such as:

• Infection: Infection is one of the most common causes of delayed wound healing.
• Wound type: Some types of wounds, such as deep wounds and burns, take longer to heal.
• Wound location: Wounds in areas with poor blood supply, such as the feet and ankles, tend to heal more slowly.
• Foreign bodies: The presence of a foreign body, such as dirt, glass, or splinters, in the wound can delay healing.
• Moisture: A moist wound environment is ideal for healing. Wounds that are too dry or too wet can heal more slowly.

IATROGENIC FACTORS

Iatrogenic factors are those that are caused by medical treatment, such as:

• Surgery: Surgery can create a large wound that can take longer to heal.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can damage the skin and surrounding tissues, which can delay wound healing.
• Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs, can interfere with wound healing.

HOW PHARMACISTS CAN HELP

Pharmacists can play an important role in helping patients optimise their wound healing by:

• Educating patients about wound care: Pharmacists can teach patients how to clean and dress their wounds, as well as how to monitor for signs of infection. You can also advise on appropriate dressings and ointments.
• Assessing patients' risk factors for delayed wound healing: Pharmacists can review patients' medical history and medications to identify any factors that may delay wound healing.
• Recommending over-the-counter products: Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter products, such as pain relievers and ointments, to help patients manage their wound pain and discomfort.
• Referring patients to other healthcare professionals: If a patient has a complex wound or is at high risk for delayed wound healing, pharmacists can refer them to a physician or other healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

By understanding the factors that can affect wound healing, pharmacists can play a vital role in helping their patients achieve optimal outcomes.

REFERENCES:

• Schultz GS, Chin GA, Moldawer L, et al. Principles of Wound Healing. In: Fitridge R, Thompson M, editors. Mechanisms of Vascular Disease: A Reference Book for Vascular Specialists [Internet]. Adelaide (AU): University of Adelaide Press; 2011. 23. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534261/
• Wallace HA, Basehore BM, Zito PM. Wound Healing Phases. [Updated 2023 Jun 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470443/
• Wallace HA, Basehore BM, Zito PM. Wound Healing Phases. [Updated 2023 Jun 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470443/
• Factors Affecting Wound Healing. Available from: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Factors_Affecting_Wound_Healing
• Four Key Factors that Improve Healing Rates. Available from: https://blog.healogics.com/blog/four-key-factors-that-improve-healing-rates
• Mayo Clinic. Bedsores (pressure ulcers). Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bed-sores/symptoms-causes/syc-20355893