Wound care and pain: tips for patients

Take an active part in wound care yourself.

• Take your pain medication 1 hour before the start for sufficient induction time.
• Ask if the wound can be rinsed or showered (beforehand).
• Ask to loosen bandages or use a spray.
• Apply relaxation or breathing exercises.
• Opt for distraction with music, virtual reality, smartphone.
• Ask to participate in wound care, such as removing dressings.

Talk about it

• Talk about your pain experience during previous wound care moments.
• Discuss whether you would like to see the wound.
• Discuss whether you would like explanations.
• Discuss whether a time-out from wound care is possible.