Patients, who need wound care, present a unique set of challenges for case managers in the current health care environment.  Case management should play a significant and integral part of any wound management program.  Meeting the overall transition needs of these complex patients must be a combined effort of the medical team, nursing staff, and case management.  Recognizing how and when to integrate these professionals can be difficult. 

Best practice for wound care depends on a detailed understanding of wound type, assessment, underlying co-morbidities, healing potential and basic and advanced treatment options.  Distinguishing these complexities will ensure that the entire care collaboration team comprehends the wound care delivery needs for the patient.    

This session will look at ideas for closing the gap and minimizing the fragmentation in care delivery between nursing and case managers.  The current 2010 Case Management Standards of Practice will be addressed and how they are relevant to wound care practices.  Evidence based guidelines will also be discussed as a best practice tool for the case manager

1. Discuss strategies for improving transition of care for wound clients.
2. Recognize the need for a structured communication process.
3. Explore how clinical practice guidelines and case management standards of practice can enhance care across the continuum.