Empowering Self-Care: The Impact of Portable Wound Care Kits on Health Outcomes Among the Unhoused Population
Abstract/Description/Artist Statement
Unhoused individuals are disproportionately affected by skin and soft tissue conditions due to environmental exposure, inadequate hygiene, and restricted access to healthcare services. These factors contribute to increased emergency department visits, costly hospitalizations, and preventable complications. While there have been various initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access for this vulnerable population, there is limited research focused on empowering unhoused individuals to manage their own care. The lack of standardized self-treatment or monitoring protocols underscores the need for innovative, community-based wound care solutions. Such approaches not only reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes but also enhance self-efficacy and empowerment for this underserved group.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Tina Gustin
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Email
tgustin@odu.edu
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Department
Associate Professor of DNP Program
College/School Affiliation
Ellmer School of Nursing
Student Level Group
Graduate/Professional
Presentation Type
Poster
Empowering Self-Care: The Impact of Portable Wound Care Kits on Health Outcomes Among the Unhoused Population
Unhoused individuals are disproportionately affected by skin and soft tissue conditions due to environmental exposure, inadequate hygiene, and restricted access to healthcare services. These factors contribute to increased emergency department visits, costly hospitalizations, and preventable complications. While there have been various initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access for this vulnerable population, there is limited research focused on empowering unhoused individuals to manage their own care. The lack of standardized self-treatment or monitoring protocols underscores the need for innovative, community-based wound care solutions. Such approaches not only reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes but also enhance self-efficacy and empowerment for this underserved group.