Interactive Wound Care: CD-ROM for Health Professionals.

Interactive Wound Care: CD-ROM for Health Professionals LaRaus S. Thorofare, NJ 08086, Slack Inc, 2003, CD-ROM, ISBN: 1-55642-543-0, $189.95. (System requirements: For PC: Pentium 1 (166 MHz)-based PC or above, Windows '95 or later, 64 MB RAM, 30 MB hard disk storage, 1 MB (or higher) SVGA card, 8-bit Sound Blaster-compatible sound card, 800 x 600 monitor resolution, QuickTime 5.0 (or higher) for Windows (included). For Macintosh: Power PC (or above), Mac OS version 8.6 (or higher), 64 MB of RAM, 30 MB of hard disk storage, 800 x 600 monitor resolution, QuickTime 5.0 (or higher) for Macintosh (included).]

The purpose of this software is to provide an interactive format for learning or reviewing basic examination and treatment principles for the care of chronic wounds. It does so with the use of text, photographs, video recordings, and audio recordings.

The CD-ROM was reviewed using a Dell PC with a Pentium III (1.1 GHz) processor, running the Windows '98 operating system. Hardware included a 10 GB hard drive, 128 MB RAM, an Intel 82815 Graphics Controller, and SoundMAX Integrated Audio Card.

The program uses a textbook format, augmented with audio and video components. Topics included on the CD are skin anatomy, wound healing stages, examination methods, evaluation concepts, debridement techniques, dressing selections, physical agents, diabetes evaluation, and nutrition principles. The first 2 topics outline the anatomical and physiological basis for wound care. The examination section illustrates basic tests and measures commonly used in this population. The evaluation concepts section covers tests and measures specific to various wound classifications such as those for pressure ulcers, venous and arterial ulcers, and neuropathic wounds. In addition, a segment on goal writing and outcomes is located in this section. The debridement, dressings, and interventions sections illustrate the procedural interventions commonly offered in wound care settings. The final two sections are devoted to examining and educating patients with diabetes and nutritional concerns for patients with a wound. The bibliography and reference lists are extensive, and vendor resources for equipment and supplies enhance the product.

The information found in the CD appears to be current, and the video clips illustrating tests and procedural interventions augment the user's understanding of the materials. Although the CD is truly multimedia, its claim for interactivity may be overstated. No opportunities were found for the learner to answer posed questions, participate in case studies, or provide input into the program. In addition, the product could be strengthened by closer adherence to the physical therapist patient/client management model outlined in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, Second Edition. Finally, the inclusion of information on patients who have burn wounds and of more extensive information on screening the integumentary system would enhance the completeness of the offering.

The software is operator-friendly and easy to install. Overall, the software is very easy to manipulate and is suitable for those with basic computer knowledge. The program is menu driven, and all operations are point-and-click maneuvers. The manual briefly outlines installation information and provides a technical support phone number. The CD does have some drawbacks, however. The help function is a one-screen diagram of the main menu, with descriptions of the functions of the software; no other help materials were available. Moreover, there is no search function available.

Nevertheless, Interactive Wound Care would be an excellent library acquisition for clinicians who are interested in wound care and for those who train others to perform basic wound care. The multimedia presentation format enhances learning for visual, motor, and auditory learners. The video recordings of interventions and tests and measures expedite skill-based learning. This resource allows the learner to develop a sound basis for the management of the patient with wounds.

Cynthia Kunkel Scott, PT, PhD

University of Mississippi Medical Center 

Jackson, Miss

Dr Scott is Associate Professor and Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education in the Department of Physical Therapy. She teaches in the areas of wound care, women's health, and professional development.