104 W. 5th Ave. Suite 112W
(Fifth & Browne Medical Building)
(509) 474-3456

For the millions of Americans whose natural healing processes are hampered by poor circulation, diabetes or other causes, a simple blister can result in chronic open sores, serious infections, gangrene or even amputation.

New hope through comprehensive therapy for chronic sores is now available through the Sacred Heart Wound Care Services. When a doctor refers a patient Wound Care Services, he or she knows the patient will be seen by physicians who have advanced training in wound management and nurses trained in the care of chronic wounds.

Wound care physicians and nurses evaluate patients to determine underlying conditions that inhibit the healing process, plan an individualized treatment program and teach them how to care for their wounds at home.

WOUND MANAGEMENT
Our services include outpatient, inpatient and outreach care.

• Outpatient services are in the Fifth and Browne Medical Building. There, staff physicians use individualized treatment plans for the best results, and update referring doctors on their patients' progress.

• The inpatient component addresses the fact that during a hospital stay, patients sometimes acquire pressure sores. Patients at Sacred Heart who acquire sores, as well as newly admitted patients with existing wounds, will be treated according to a nationally-tested care plan. Benefits include fewer re-admissions, reduced lengths of stay and greater patient satisfaction.

• Outreach care is perhaps the most unique part of Wound care services. Many patients in long-term care facilities suffer from pressure ulcers, which can lead to severe pain, disability, disfigurement, and even death. Through Wound Care Services, Sacred Heart can reach patients who may have difficulty receiving care otherwise, which enhances quality of care, reduces complications and the need for hospitalization.

PHYSICIAN PANEL
Medical director: Paul H. Lin, MD, general surgery
Thomasin Harris, DPM, podiatry
Tracy Magnuson, MD, vascular surgery
Michael Moore, MD, general surgery
Stephen P. Murray, MD, vascular surgery
Elizabeth L. Peterson, MD, plastic surgery

TIPS FOR DIABETIC INDIVIDUALS

Proper foot care in summer months
As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, more people head outside to enjoy the beauty of spring and the dawn of summer. Although it may be tempting to walk barefoot in the grass or sand, you may want to reconsider if you are one of the 16 million Americans with diabetes.

Individuals with diabetes have a greater risk for developing a condition called neuropathy, or nerve damage, one of the most common complications of diabetes. It develops gradually, usually in the feet, and results in numbness and the loss of the protective sensation that signals pain in body extremities. Neuropathy often goes undetected.

FOLLOW THESE BASIC GUIDELINES TO
KEEP FEET INJURY-FREE THIS SPRING AND SUMMER:

• Inspect your feet daily for obvious wounds and problems that may lead to ulcers. These problems include cuts, scrapes, dry or cracking skin, redness, tenderness, blisters, and calluses. Most wounds occur on the soles or between toes, so check these areas especially carefully.

• Wash your feet every day in warm (not hot) water. Dry feet thoroughly after washing. This is a good time to do your daily foot exam, too.

• If your feet are dry, apply a small amount of a moisturizer after you have washed and dried your feet. Do not moisturize between your toes.

• Never soak your feet in hot water.

• Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet.

• Never go barefoot, even indoors.

• Protect your feet from extreme temperatures and from the sun.

• Buy comfortable, well-fitting shoes with soft leather uppers that can mold to the shape of your feet. Be sure they don't cramp your toes. Running or walking shoes are recommended; avoid sandals, thongs, high heels and shoes with open toes or heels.

• Avoid wearing the same shoes all day because it exposes you to constant pressure in the same areas of your feet.

• Wear seamless socks or stockings. Do not use garters or elastic to hold up your stockings.

• Always inspect shoes and socks before and after wearing them.

• Avoid girdles or anything too tight around the legs that can cause your feet to swell.

• Cut toenails straight across. If you have difficulty cutting them, ask a family member for help or see a podiatrist.

SEE YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU:

• Develop a corn or callus. (Do not cut them yourself and don't use over-the-counter corn or callus removers.)
• Notice any foot problem or injury.

OTHER IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Have your feet examined by your doctor every three months or as instructed by your doctor.
• Work with your healthcare providers to keep your blood glucose levels under good control.