Understanding exudate management and the role of exudate in the healing process.

Studies suggest that wound fluid from acute wounds may have a beneficial effect on wound healing, whereas that of chronic wounds may inhibit healing. Changes in the volume and nature of exudate provide information on the underlying state of the wound and may give an indication of an increasing bacterial load and the presence of infection, and if a wound is likely to proceed to healing. Careful monitoring of the exudate can provide information for the application of systemic and local therapies. Individual wound care products have specific functions which relate to the volume, viscosity and nature of the exudate and these should guide skin care and dressing selection.