posture. For patients with mobility issues, it is recommended that they are assisted into a suitable position by ward/clinic staff with specific patient handling training. Any necessary supportive accessories (mirror for photographing heels etc, hoist to elevate bariatric patients) should be used to achieve photography with minimal risk to staff. 7.3 Patient positioning The positioning of the patient can have a significant impact on the quality of photography achieved. Awkward angles can often be difficult for the end user of the photograph to comprehend or may alter the appearance of the wound (Figure 23 and 24).
With this in mind, clear communication with ward staff regarding positioning and what it is hoped will be achieved, is vital before any movement of the patient occurs. Figure 21. Surgical site of previous keratotic lesion – before debridement. Figure 22. Surgical site of previous kearatotic lesion – after debridement. Wound margins are more evident. Figure 23. Wound to dorsum of left hand. Patient placed hand on hospital bed for photography. Distortion of perspective is evident with the hand sloping backwards, making wound assessment difficult. Figure 24. The same wound photographed with the patient being asked to hold their hand out to the side, in front of a white background.
Photographs were taken with the camera parallel to the wound area. page 18