Silver Chain Group's wounds expert Professor Keryln Carville has been recognised on the international stage with a prestigious accolade at the World Union of Wound Healing Societies 2022.
As Silver Chain's Professor Primary Health Care and Community Nursing, Prof Carville was one of nine wound experts worldwide to be awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for dedication to serving those with wounds and those who care for them.
More than 400,000 Australians suffer chronic wounds each year, costing each patient over $4000 in out-of-pocket costs and the health system an estimated $3 billion.
Wounds can have an enormous impact on a patient's quality of life and sense of wellbeing, impacting daily tasks and causing much pain and discomfort.
Held every four years and incorporating the peak bodies of multiple countries, Prof Carville described the World Union of Wound Healing Societies conference in Abu Dhabi as the 'wound Olympics'.
"I am amazed and honoured to be recognised by international peers. It is humbling to think you are given an award for something you enjoy so much and is part of your life's work," Prof Carville said.
"We live in a time when there has been more science generated around wound healing than any other time. With this great privilege comes great responsibility to ensure our practices are underpinned by the latest scientific evidence available, as best practice contributes to best outcomes."
"This work isn't possible without our team of expert nurses at Silver Chain. I am part of a team which is committed to best outcomes."
Silver Chain CEO Dale Fisher said Silver Chain nurses managed 53,000 wounds for almost 23,000 Australians each year, and many were following Prof Carville's lead.
"This acknowledgement of Prof Carville's commitment to wound care reflects her vital leadership in this sector. It sets a high standard for our continued investment in the development of future wound care research leaders, with several of our employees undertaking PhD studies in the field."
With a nursing career spanning more than five decades, Prof Carville has long been recognised for her dedication to wound care.