Pain and Stress in Wound Care.

Abstract

It has been suggested that stress can delay wound healing as a result of pain itself being viewed as a stressor. However, previous research in this area has had a particular focus on the relationship between stress, pain and the healing of acute and surgical wounds. Objectives: This review examines the literature surrounding the relationship between stress, pain and delayed healing of chronic wounds. Findings: There are a number of studies of biopsy and surgical wounds that demonstrate a delay in wound healing as a result of stress. However, the impact of pain in this relationship has rarely been explored. In clinical practice, implementation of both physiological and psychological methods to measure pain and stress during the wound care process would enable clinicians to provide effective treatment and coping techniques for patients, which could reduce pain and stress to facilitate faster wound healing. Conclusion: The literature to date clearly demonstrates that stress can have a detrimental effect on the wound healing process; however evidence to support the impact of pain in this relationship is limited.