Table Of ContentEssential Microbiology
for Wound Care
Essential
Microbiology
for Wound Care
Edited by
Valerie Edwards-Jones
Emeritus Professor of Medical Microbiology
School of Healthcare Science
Manchester Metropolitan University, UK
Clinical Director,
MelBec Microbiology Ltd, Haslingden
Rossendale, Lancashire, UK
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9780198716006-Edwards-Jones.indb 3 27/11/15 11:42 AM
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Foreword by Gregory Schultz
Optimal care of both acute and chronic wounds requires effective manage-
ment of the bacterial bioburden, yet many wound care providers (physicians,
nurses, and podiatrists) have limited training in basic aspects of micro-
biology, which reduces their effectiveness in selecting and using advanced
wound care products. This ‘gap in their knowledge base’ can result in incon-
sistent or suboptimal wound care that can lead to substantial complications
including sepsis or amputations.
Fortunately, the new text ‘Essential Microbiology for Wound Care’ edited by
Valerie Edwards-Jones, Emeritus Professor of Medical Microbiology, and former
Director of Research at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK, is a major
aid in filling this knowledge gap for wound care providers. Professor Edwards-
Jones has enlisted a very distinguished list of contributors who are leaders in
their areas of microbiology and clinical wound care. The list of topics spans the
spectrum from the basic science of microbiology to clinical translation of the
key principles into effective wound care. These include chapters on new devel-
opments in understanding bacterial biofilms, advances in antimicrobial agents,
descriptions of antimicrobial dressing used in wound care, strategies to reduce
wound infection and to optimize treatments for infected wounds.
Busy clinicians will find the structure of the chapters to be very ‘user-
friendly’. Each chapter includes a concise list of the important information
covered in the chapter and a summary of the key facts discussed and written
in terms the non-microbiologist can readily understand.
This new text is highly recommended for both new and experienced
wound care clinicians because it effectively bridges the knowledge gap that
often exists between understanding basic microbiology and effective trans-
lation into prevention of wound infection or effective clinical management
of wound bioburden.
Professor Gregory Schultz, PhD
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Institute for Wound Research
University of Florida, USA
Foreword by Sue Bale
The publication of this book is so timely with the growth in discussion
and debate surrounding the importance of infection, microbial resistance,
and the challenges associated with developing new antibiotics and alterna-
tive therapies. The risk of wound infection is a constant clinical challenge,
which can delay healing for individual patients, affect their quality of life,
whilst adversely impacting on health systems’ economies. The early detec-
tion of infection by deploying the best diagnostics will help clinical staff to
move quickly to treat infection, thus reducing its economic and personal
costs.
Our knowledge of the role of biofilms in wounds has emerged over the past
10 years, alongside the negative effects of biofilms throughout other sites in
the human body. Effective recognition, detection and management of bio-
films in wounds that is underpinned by sound knowledge, and the clinical
experiences of experts will be key to providing the best clinical care possible
for patients. If we can bring together the knowledge and experience of ex-
pert wound healing professionals with the research of laboratory and clinical
scientists then we will be well on the way to transforming recalcitrant, non-
healing wounds into healed wounds.
At a practical level many wounds require a dressing to manage exudates,
drainage, pain, and cosmesis. When infection and bacterial burden is also
present, decisions about which of the many dressings to use can be chal-
lenging. Clinical staff need to be aware of the indications of use, functions,
application and contraindications of these dressings if they are to effectively
utilize them to effectively manage infection and bacterial burden.
As science moves forward and progress is made to improve interven-
tions for patients, it is essential that these discoveries are brought together
and assimilated and then compared and contrasted with existing treat-
ments. ‘Essential Microbiology for Wound Care’ does this, garnering the
expertise of researchers and clinical leaders, who as authors have contrib-
uted to this text.
This book guides clinical staff in managing the broad range of clini-
cal challenges that relate to bacteria and wounds and it is hugely relevant
to these healthcare professionals. The effects of applying the knowledge,
FoREwoRD BY SUE BALE vii
information, and guidance contained within this book will no doubt help to
prevent complications associated with microbes, which can be serious and
life threatening.
Professor Sue Bale, OBE
FRCN, PhD, BA, RGN, NDN, RHV, PG Dip, Dip N
Research and Development Director
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board
St Cadoc’s Hospital
Newport, UK
Preface
This book is aimed at the wound care practitioner and hopefully will give an
understanding of the role of microorganisms in the healing process and how
colonization and infection can impede this.
The various chapters describe fundamental principles of microbiology and
most examples are focused around wound care. However, in order to ensure
full understanding, alternative examples are also used to emphasize a par-
ticular principle.
The book is written in such a style that certain aspects can be revisited in
order to aid understanding of some microbiological problems. The object-
ives of each chapter are listed and throughout the chapters key important
points are highlighted, as are interesting facts.
All the authors are experts in their own fields and they have written
their chapters to help you understand the full impact of microbiology and
wound care.
Enjoy reading . . .
