BETWEEN TEACHING AND CARE: EXTENSION EXPERIENCES IN WOUND MANAGEMENT

Abstract

This study reports the experience of a university extension project aimed at providing comprehensive care to individuals with chronic wounds, developed within a multidisciplinary outpatient service. The project was registered with the Office of Extension of the Federal University of the Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys (UFVJM) and was part of a research initiative funded by the Minas Gerais Research Support Foundation (FAPEMIG). Although the overall scope included the implementation of a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial, the present study adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach, focusing on the systematization of the care and educational actions developed and their contributions to healthcare delivery and professional training. Individuals with chronic wounds referred by the Family Health Strategies of Diamantina and surrounding municipalities, or identified through medical and nursing triage, were assisted. Care was provided on an outpatient basis between April 2023 and May 2024, with the participation of undergraduate students supervised by a nurse. The interventions included clinical wound assessment, dressing procedures, laser therapy application, monitoring of wound progression, and guidance to patients and caregivers, with an emphasis on home-based self-care and the prevention of complications. To ensure continuity of care, individualized written care plans were developed and directed to patients, Family Health Strategy teams, and municipal health departments. In parallel, structured health education and professional training activities were carried out through monthly meetings with healthcare professionals, addressing wound assessment, selection of dressings, and the use of laser therapy in conjunction with conventional treatment. The experience demonstrated increased empowerment of patients and caregivers, leading to improved treatment adherence, as well as the development of technical, communication, and collaborative competencies among students. It is concluded that the integration of healthcare delivery, health education, and student training promotes more humanized and comprehensive care for individuals with chronic wounds and enhances professional education in health.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.037-054