Watch recording
Abstract
The Yukon Frostbite Protocol is an excellent evidence-based resource for any country managing frostbite. However, there are some limitations to the protocol and special considerations are needed when dealing with the homeless population who have frostbite, including, access to care, pharmaceutical treatment, difficulty in attending scheduled treatments, financial concerns, mental health concerns, prevention of reinjury and the environment. Our Integrated Home Care’s Consult and Treat Team, working from our downtown wound clinic, provides an interdisciplinary approach to client-centered wound care and achieves excellence by addressing barriers to healing in the “home” environment and by overcoming obstacles to delivering care. The innovative drop-in line at our downtown wound clinic provides client centered care to the homeless population, and in the winter months, frostbite management. The purpose of this presentation is to highlight the learned experiences and key differences in frostbite care provided to the homeless population as compared to evidence-based resources. In particular, we will describe the differences between the Yukon Frostbite protocol and the protocol used with the homeless population to manage frostbite injury.