​Koketso Maraba 
 
The Gauteng Department of Health is taking steps to prevent pressure wounds, also known as bedsores, by offering training to nurses and healthcare workers. These wounds are injuries to the skin and tissue caused by staying in one position for too long, and they often affect patients who are bedridden or have limited mobility. 
To address this issue, the Department hosted a hands-on Wound Care Management Workshop for nurses from more than 15 hospitals, including some of the province's largest tertiary hospitals.
The training took place in celebration of International Nurses Day, making it not only a learning opportunity but also a way to honour the nurses who work tirelessly to care for patients. The focus of the workshop was to equip nurses with the skills they need to treat wounds early and effectively, so they can prevent serious complications like infections or long hospital stays.
During the session, nurses were taught seven essential steps of wound care including washing hands properly, stopping bleeding, cleaning the wound, choosing and applying the right dressing, protecting the area, changing dressings when needed, and watching for signs of infection. These steps are critical in helping wounds heal faster and reducing the risk of further harm to patients. The training also stressed the importance of using the right dressing for each type of wound. 
Sister Bongekile Ngcobo, a nurse in the Trauma ICU at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, said the training helped her pay closer attention to detail. She mentioned that the refresher on wound stages and stoma care gave her more confidence when treating complex cases. 
"One powerful insight I took away from the workshop is how crucial it is to choose the right type of dressing for each wound. Sometimes, one carefully selected dressing can do more than using several at once; it supports faster healing and creates a better experience for the patient. Overall, I feel empowered and encouraged. The knowledge I gained today will help us deliver better care, reduce complications, and hopefully shorten hospital stays for our patients," said Ngcobo. 
Meanwhile Takalani Mathikhi, an area manager in the Accident and Emergency and Outpatient Department at Pholosong Hospital said she learned how important it is to match the right product with the right wound. She is excited to use the knowledge to improve services at her hospital's wound care clinic.
With more than 60% of hospital patients having some kind of wound, good wound care is more than just treatment, it's prevention. Through this kind of proactive training, the Gauteng Department of Health is showing its strong commitment to patient safety and recovery. By giving nurses the right tools and knowledge, the Department is helping to prevent pressure wounds and improve care across the province.