What does the wound say? Why determining etiology is essential for appropriate wound care.

PURPOSE: To provide physicians and nurses with an overview of factors to consider in determining wound etiology.

TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians and nurses with an interest in understanding how determining wound etiology affects wound care.

OBJECTIVES: After reading the article and taking the test, the participant should be able to: 1. Describe the etiology and characteristics of pressure ulcers, skin tears, and diabetic ulcers. 2. Describe the etiology, characteristics, and management of venous and arterial ulcers. 3. Identify factors needed to determine the etiology and management of specific atypical wounds.