The ABCDEFGHI approach introduces a systematic approach to wound care. It instructs the clinician to Ask pertinent questions, including those that may identify local and systemic Barriers to wound healing. After obtaining a thorough history, the clinician may proceed to Clean the wound and Do a physical examination, specifically looking for Exposed structures and Factors that will complicate the healing process. Good Healing strategies involving various dressings can then be implemented to promote healing. If necessary, a referral can be made to Involve specialists using various referral pathways. Information used to synthesize this approach was obtained through a review of national and international guidelines and Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases. The ABCDEFGHI approach to wound assessment and management is a simple and easy-to-follow guide that can be easily implemented into practice, thereby improving clinician confidence and competence in wound care. GENERAL PURPOSE The purpose of this continuing education article is to introduce the ABCDEFGHI approach to wound assessment and management. TARGET AUDIENCE This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES After participating in this educational activity, the participant will: 1. Distinguish barriers to wound healing. 2. Summarize best practices for wound treatment strategies. 3. Explain the usefulness of complete blood count results during a wound investigation. 4. Identify a major factor to consider when deciding on a referral for wound management.

The ABCDEFGHI approach introduces a systematic approach to wound care. It instructs the clinician to Ask pertinent questions, including those that may identify local and systemic Barriers to wound healing. After obtaining a thorough history, the clinician may proceed to Clean the wound and Do a physical examination, specifically looking for Exposed structures and Factors that will complicate the healing process. Good Healing strategies involving various dressings can then be implemented to promote healing. If necessary, a referral can be made to Involve specialists using various referral pathways. Information used to synthesize this approach was obtained through a review of national and international guidelines and Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases. The ABCDEFGHI approach to wound assessment and management is a simple and easy-to-follow guide that can be easily implemented into practice, thereby improving clinician confidence and competence in wound care.