The-PAWSIC-Track-at-WoundCon-Summer-2026

1. • The Good, The Bad, and The Runny: Unpacking the Science of Wound Exudate

     Wound exudate is more than drainage—it reflects the underlying biochemistry of healing. This session examines the distinct biochemical profiles of acute versus chronic exudate, with a focused look at matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their role in tissue remodeling, inflammation, and stalled wounds. Participants will gain practical insight into recognizing when therapeutic moisture supports healing—and when it becomes destructive—equipping them to make more precise, evidence-based moisture management decisions.

     Speaker: Ira Herman, PhD

   • Into the Fold: Microclimates, Friction, and Pannus Management

     Moisture management becomes increasingly complex in patients with deep skin folds, limited mobility, severe contractures, or bariatric anatomy. This session explores the clinical challenges of trapped moisture, heightened fungal risk, and skin breakdown in hard-to-access areas, highlighting assessment strategies and early intervention techniques. Faculty will also review the role of specialized textiles and advanced fabric technologies in wicking moisture, reducing friction, and protecting vulnerable skin—equipping clinicians with practical solutions to improve outcomes in high-risk populations.

     Speaker: Frank Aviles, PT, CWS, FACCWS, CLT-LANA, ALM, AWCC, MLD/CDT Instr

   • Clean Sweep: Advancing Healing Through Wound Hygeine

     Wound hygiene is the cornerstone of effective wound bed preparation and a decisive step in preventing biofilm formation and infection-related delays. By actively disrupting biofilm and reducing bioburden, thorough cleansing can reset the wound environment and reignite stalled healing. This session provides clear, practical strategies to standardize wound hygiene across care settings—empowering clinicians to reduce complications, improve consistency, and achieve faster, more predictable outcomes.

     Speaker: Wendy Hooker, BSN, RN, CWS

   • Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Pairing Exudate Volume to Dressing Selection

     Effective moisture management requires more than selecting a dressing—it demands ongoing, real-time clinical decision-making. This session provides a practical guide to knowing when to step up to higher-absorbency options such as alginates, hydrofibers, and superabsorbents, and when to step down as exudate levels change. Through case-based discussion and assessment strategies, clinicians will gain confidence in tailoring moisture control to the evolving wound environment to prevent complications and optimize healing outcomes.

     Speaker: Therese Laub, LPN, CWS, FACCWS

   • Making the Case for NPWT: Empowering Clinicians in Post Acute Care

     Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) can significantly improve healing trajectories in the post-acute setting—but access often depends on strong clinical advocacy. This session equips clinicians with the knowledge, language, and documentation strategies needed to confidently support NPWT use in home care and skilled nursing environments. Participants will learn how to articulate medical necessity, navigate common reimbursement barriers, and collaborate effectively with payers, providers, and care teams to ensure patients receive timely, appropriate advanced wound therapy.

     Speakers: Julie Rhodovi, MBA, CWCA, LBBH; Alicia Jenkins, RN, CWCN; Catherine Oliver, MD