Skin and soft tissue abscesses: assessment and management

Skin and soft tissue abscesses (SSTAs) are painful localised collections of pus in the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous tissue which, without timely and effective intervention, can progress to serious complications including systemic sepsis and necrotising fasciitis. The evidence emphasises the limitations of a one-size-fits-all surgical approach, where treatment of SSTAs often defaults to incision and drainage. This article discusses the aetiology, assessment and management of patients presenting with purulent SSTAs and identifies opportunities for nurses to refine their assessment practices, optimise interventions and enhance patient outcomes. Emphasis is placed on comprehensive history-taking, detailed physical examination, and accurate evaluation of abscess size, depth and anatomical location. The author also discusses alternative surgical practices that nurses should be aware of to ensure they are able to provide patients with evidence-based care.