Complex wounds: a partnership approach to patient documentation.

A concern regarding the lack of effective communication experienced within Ayrshire in relation to patients with complex wounds initiated the development of a patient-held record. The aim of the patient-held record was to promote patient empowerment by providing a method by which patients and professionals share information. Interested stakeholders worked in partnership to produce a draft record which comprises three main sections: a core section, wound section and personal notes section. Other sections which can be included, where relevant, are nutrition, continence and podiatry. After obtaining ethical approval, patients with complex wounds were involved to refine the record before participating in a successful pilot of the document. Evaluation of the pilot demonstrated that patients felt empowered and communication improved between everyone involved in the patient's care. The final record was printed with a planned, phased introduction to be undertaken across Ayrshire and Arran.