Debridement Selection

When selecting the most appropriate method of debridement, the following should be taken into consideration:

• The goals of care (e.g., the healing potential of the pressure injury)
• The person’s condition and co-morbidities (e.g., end-of-life, pain management)
• Risks and safety (e.g. risk of bleeding, immunocompromised)
• Person-centred preferences (e.g. preference for more conservative treatment)
• The type, quantity, and location of non-viable, necrotic tissue
• The depth of the pressure injury and the amount of drainage
• The availability of and access to qualified staff and appropriate resources (e.g., pain management, supplies, specialists)
• Cost-effectiveness (sharp wound debridement is the most cost-effective, followed by enzymatic debridement)