You play an important role in helping your wound to heal. At Englewood Health’s Wound Healing Center, your wound care nurse will work with you to create a customized plan for healing your wound. We will teach you or a family member how and when to change the wound dressing.
Nutrition is Important in Wound Healing
Good nutrition is very important for would healing. You should:
- Supplement your nutrition with protein powder or liquid nutritional supplements, especially if you don’t have an appetite
- Take a multivitamin daily; zinc and vitamin C are especially important to wound healing
- Drink lots of fluids, such as water, fruit juices and milk
- Eat protein-rich foods, such as eggs, dairy, fish, meat, beans, nuts, tofu
- Eat more vegetables (especially leafy greens) and fruits (especially citrus fruits), and whole grains
- Quit or cut back on smoking
- Control blood sugar if you have diabetes
Tips for Encouraging Wound Healing
- Reduce pressure on the wound. Consider a pressure-relieving mattress or pad to sit on.
- Avoid rubbing when you turn in bed or when you’re adjusting your position in a chair
- Wear special shoes or boots as prescribed
- Elevate your legs to prevent swelling
- Wear compression stockings as prescribed
- Follow special storage instructions for wound care supplies