Management of malignant fungating wounds in advanced cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To review the pathophysiology and assessment of malignant wounds and management techniques aimed at controlling pain, odor, exudate, and local bleeding.


METHODS
Current research and published literature.


CONCLUSIONS
Assessment of malignant wounds, selection of appropriate dressings, related symptom management, and patient and family support are vital aspects of cutaneous wound management in advanced cancer.


CONCLUSIONS
A thorough understanding of the care of malignant wounds will assist oncology nurses achieving palliative goals of care including optimal symptom management, odor and drainage control, and emotional support.
Seaman
Susie
S
Sharp Grossmont Hospital Wound Healing Center, La Mesa, CA 91942, USA. Susie.seaman@sharp.com
D001294:Attitude to Health; D001458:Bandages; D001828:Body Image; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005122:Exudates and Transudates; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D009336:Necrosis; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009812:Odorants; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D018579:Patient Selection; D017592:Skin Care / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000556:secondary* / Q000628:therapy*; D012944:Social Support