a more in-depth and rigorous evaluation that could potentially
be used to inform the provision of education on wound care.
Conclusion
The results of this survey have identified the need for on-
going education on key aspects of wound infection, including
identification of critical colonisation and localised infection,
treatment options, best practice on the use of antimicrobial
dressings and wound cleansing options. While the
overwhelming majority of nurses and health professionals who
took part in the survey had completed their pre-registration
education, the results highlight the need to include these
topics in sufficient detail in this training. In the current climate
of efficiency savings, there may be an increasing debate on the
need to reduce the use of topical antimicrobials unless their
clinical efficacy (and correct application) can be proven. BJN