Over the past few weeks we have been looking at the problem of sickle cell ulcers. Sickle cell ulcers affect around 75% of all sickle cell sufferers, and can prove extremely painful and debilitating for the patient. Management of sickle cell ulcers relies on the effective implementation of good wound care practices. However, even under optimal treatment conditions, sickle cell ulcers can prove extremely intractable, and many persist for several months or even years. One of the most important considerations when managing sickle cell ulcers is to manage the patient’s pain. This can prove extremely challenging, and often requires systemic treatment as well as topical management. In  many cases, intervention from a pain specialist is required.

We hope that you have enjoyed this short series on sickle cell ulcers. To test your knowledge in this area, please have a good at the quiz below. If you find some of the questions challenging, you may wish to consider studying this condition in greater depth as part of an  ongoing professional development program. For more details of the benefits of studying for a certification in wound care, please visit www.woundeducators.com.

Next week we begin a new topic when we turn our attention to the complex problem of vasculitis.

Test your knowledge about sickle cell ulcers by taking this 5 question quiz.