U lc e r in f e c t io n
Ulcer infection was documented when the ulcer showed more
pronounced pain, exudate, redness around the ulcer, or oedema,
and healing was delayed as a result. In such cases the responsible
physician ordered more frequent dressing changes and
antimicrobial treatment for the next 1-2 weeks, during which
time the patient was followed closely by their assigned ‘ulcer
nurse’. If this strategy did not clear the infection, antibiotics
were prescribed according to the result of the swab.