International Consensus Document – Wound Care and Skin Tone. Signs, Symptoms and Terminology for all Skin Tones

A group of global experts convened for an online meeting in September 2022 to develop this international consensus document, focusing on inclusive language, assessment, and treatment of all skin tones, to improve patient outcomes. The members of the expert group work in different areas of the world, with differing patient groups and within different healthcare systems; the aim of this meeting and the resulting document was to learn from shared experiences and provide guidance on best practice to improve outcomes for all patients, with a differing range of skin tones.
This international consensus document aims to:

• Provide practical guidance on accurate assessment and diagnosis in all skin tones
• Provide guidance on language and descriptors to use, aiding clear patient communication
• Discuss different geographical and cultural considerations across the globe
• Dispel myths relating to skin tones
• Focus on the future, the need for education and how outcomes can continue to improve.

The overall aim is to improve clinician confidence in delivering best practice to all patients, with the ultimate aim of improving patient experiences and outcomes.

Dhoonmoon L, Nair HKR, Abbas Z et al (2023) International Consensus Document: Wound care and skin tone signs, symptoms and terminology for all skin tones. Wounds International. Available online at www. woundsinternational.com

Luxmi Dhoonmoon
(Co-chair), Tissue Viability Nurse Consultant, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust

Zulfiqarali Abbas
Endocrinologist, Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam; Abbas Medical Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Harikrishna K.R. Nair
(Co-chair), Head and Consultant of Wound Care Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Malaysia; Professor, Faculty of Medicine, Lincoln University Malaysia; Professor, Institute of Health Management; Austria, Adjunct Professor, Department of Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banares Hindu University, India; Executive Director, College of Wound Care Specialists