Which specialist performs wound care and dressing?

The clinician examines the wound, surrounding skin, drainage, pain, and signs of infection before choosing a dressing. Care may include gentle cleaning, protecting the wound, controlling moisture, and arranging repeat reviews. A nurse or wound-care nurse may carry out planned dressing changes under the care plan. A surgeon, vascular specialist, or other service may be needed when tissue damage, circulation problems, pressure injury, burns, or a surgical complication requires specialised management.

Follow the dressing instructions and wash your hands before and after touching the area. Keep the dressing clean and dry as directed, and avoid applying creams, antiseptics, or home remedies unless the clinician recommends them. Tell the service if the dressing becomes soaked, loose, or painful. Bring information about diabetes, circulation problems, allergies, medicines, and your tetanus history, since these details can affect care.

Seek prompt assessment if redness spreads, swelling increases, pain becomes severe, drainage develops an offensive smell, or you feel feverish or unusually unwell. Get urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, a deep or gaping wound, loss of feeling or movement, an embedded object, or an injury from a bite. People with diabetes or poor circulation should seek advice early when a foot or leg wound is not improving.

Ask what type of wound you have, which dressing is needed, how often it should be changed, and which changes should prompt a review. Clarify bathing and activity advice, pain relief, infection warning signs, and whether you need a nurse visit or referral to another specialist.