Nancy Collins, PhD, RDN, LD, NWCC, FAND
Nutrition is a critical factor in the wound healing process, with adequate protein intake essential to successful healing. Patients with chronic and acute wounds, such as postsurgical wounds or pressure injuries, require increased protein to ensure complete and timely healing. Older patients with multiple comorbidities present a particular challenge. They often do not consume the necessary quality and quantity of dietary protein. In addition, this population may have a heightened stress response and resultant muscle loss due to a reduction in muscle protein synthesis. The all too frequent result is compromised wound healing, decreased ability to fight infections, and longer recovery time from illnesses and surgeries. It is imperative to address the increased protein needs of patients with wounds, especially older patients, to promote a full recovery … read more