Executive Summary: Topical Management of Malignant Cutaneous Wounds: Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Health Care Professionals Developed by Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (in collaboration with the Canadian Palliative Care Nursing Association)

Abstract

Malignant cutaneous wounds pose unique challenges in patient care, requiring specialized attention to alleviate local symptoms and enhance health-related quality of life. As the prevalence of these wounds continues to rise with improving cancer survival rates, it is essential to establish comprehensive best practice recommendations for their topical management. To address this need, a task force was assembled from across Canada, consisting of members from Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada and the Canadian Palliative Care Nursing Association. The purpose of these recommendations is to provide a framework for the topical management of malignant cutaneous wounds for health care professionals, emphasizing the substantial role of their support persons. Recognizing the impact of cultural humility and the need to deliver care that respects individual beliefs and practices is crucial in providing effective and equitable care. The 23 presented recommendations aim to guide nurses, the interdisciplinary team, and the health system to enhance the overall quality of malignant cutaneous wound care management.