OWM Book Review: Review of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Secrets

  Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Secrets provides information on the background and modalities often utilized in the management of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing and explains how this information is applied in the clinical setting.

  The book is organized into three sections - the section on wound management includes, among many topics, anatomy and physiology of the skin; types of wounds; wound healing, assessment, and treatment; topical products, advanced wound care options, and infection management. The authors and editors have compiled excellent questions and answers that will serve clinicians well as they seek to understand options in wound care. Pictures, graphs, and charts offer additional help in comprehending wound management principles.

  The ostomy management section contains information on the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, conditions that necessitate an ostomy, surgical procedures related to an ostomy, assessment and management of the patient with an ostomy, ostomy equipment and selection criteria, common ostomy problems, and related psychosocial issues. Appropriate information includes the recommendation that patients be seen by an ostomy care specialist when difficulties arise; the numerous options available may not be well known in the general nursing arena. One such situation is site marking for the ostomy, a skill that involves numerous considerations for patients with special challenges (eg, those who are in wheelchairs or who wear supports or devices). Specialists who perform this task on a regular basis can offer the patient the best site marking.

  Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Secrets will appeal to a variety of care providers because the provision of wound, ostomy, and incontinence care involves a multidisciplinary approach, which the book reflects. Contributing authors come from many backgrounds including nursing, physical therapy, medicine, nutrition, and academia. Many of the authors are recognized experts in their fields, lending authority to the authenticity of the material.

  Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Secrets an excellent resource for nurses and medical personnel new to wound, ostomy, and continence management. For clinicians practicing at an advanced level in these areas, the book offers a quick, well organized, easy-to-follow reference - a practical guide to have available. For more in-depth information on wound management or for evaluating outcomes from clinical trials and original research, advanced practice clinicians will need to review the references listed in the book and utilize the resources that are considered standard guides in the industry.