How to Assess Wound Exudate
Summary: Article provides practical guide to assessing wound exudate in chronic/hard-to-heal wounds. Exudate types: Serous (clear), serosanguineous (pink), sanguineous (bloody), purulent (yellow/green), fibrinous (thick). Volume: Low (moist), moderate (soaked dressing), high (leaking). Assessment: Visual (color, consistency, odor), volume estimation (dressing saturation), peri-wound skin (maceration). Tools: Exudate scales, photography, patient input. Management: Match absorptive dressings (foam, alginate, superabsorbent), topical agents (antimicrobials for infected), frequency changes. Emphasizes exudate as healing indicator (excess delays, optimal moist environment promotes). Relevant for infection/biofilm detection and advanced therapy selection.
Keywords: wound exudate, exudate assessment, moisture balance