29 Sep A Look at How Wound Complications Are Creating a Surge in Hospital Readmissions.

If you or someone you know is facing a surgical procedure, it’s important to understand that the quality of wound care services you receive greatly affects your recovery. The last thing you want is to end up back in the hospital after being discharged. Not only is it costly but wound-related complications can also be serious. In fact, studies show that complications related to wounds are the leading cause of hospital readmissions.

Why rehospitalization rates are important

Rehospitalization rates are a primary indicator of quality of care because they reflect the depth of care received. When a condition isn’t treated completely, or there isn’t an adequate plan for discharge, it can increase hospital readmission risks. This is not only costly for hospitals and insurers, but it’s also a terrible situation for patients who just want to feel better. 

But rehospitalization rates don’t necessarily mean the surgeon or hospital did something wrong. Medical care, and wound care, in particular, is complicated. If a patient is otherwise stable after a surgical procedure, most hospitals will send them home to recover. It’s more comfortable there and certainly less costly. Unfortunately, patients are left with the burden of complex wound care, which can be a lot to deal with. 

How wound care complications are creating a surge in hospital readmissions

Various studies show how wound care complications are creating a surge in hospital readmissions. According to one study that examined 237,441 surgeries, there was a 30-day unplanned readmission rate for patients of 11.4%. Of those readmissions, 30.7% were due to wound care complications. 

Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association examined 500,000 surgical procedures in the U.S. It revealed a 6% hospital readmission rate, mostly attributed to surgical complications. The primary complication was wound-related infections. 

In a recent analysis of nationwide hospital readmissions following certain procedures for the hip, lower back, and buttocks, researchers found that 4.66% of patients who underwent procedures had wound-related readmissions. And the mean cost for these readmissions was $58,701 for care and $72,399 for those who required additional surgery. 

FritzFinn improves wound care for post-surgical patients

Post-surgical and chronic wound care can be complex and stressful for patients who are already facing challenging circumstances. FritzFinn is a medical supply company that makes wound care easier for patients with its SMARTKITS™, an all-in-one kit of daily wound dressings. 

You receive a complete kit on your doorstep that includes everything you need for a single wound dressing. This eliminates the guesswork from the process and reduces much of the stress related to home wound care. 

Instead of having to sift through bags or boxes of supplies, you receive everything you need for a single wound dressing, including detailed instructions. This ensures better patient outcomes and can reduce hospital readmission rates. For more information about this innovative wound care solution, contact us today.