Painful wound characterised by the presence of pus, odour and excessive exudate which is often green in colour. The Patient may have a pyrexia. If there is granulation present, it may be a dull dark red in colour

• To identify and resolve the infection
• To contain the exudate and reduce odour
• To address pain issues

• If the wound is clinically infected appropriate systemic antibiotics should be given
• If the wound is sloughy with a heavy exudate, consider an alginate or hydrofibre dressing, these are thought to retain micro-organisms within the dressing (10)
• Dressings should be changed daily whilst infection is present (11)

• If the wound shows no evidence of improvement, consider larval therapy or the Wound VAC following discussion with the Tissue Viability Nurse
• Early identification is important to commence treatment
• If considering applying an antiseptic agent discuss with the Tissue Viability Nurse before use

• Remind of the importance of personal hygiene
• Nutritional advice should be given