Linda Ellard, an APRN-CNS who began her nursing career in Tulsa after growing up in Michigan, is encouraging individuals to question common healthcare myths that can delay proper care and better outcomes.
BIXBY, OK / ACCESS Newswire / August 4, 2026 / Many people rely on advice from family, friends or social media when dealing with wounds, infections or chronic health conditions. While some of that advice may sound reasonable, it is not always accurate. Linda Ellard, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse-Clinical Nurse Specialist (APRN-CNS) specialising in infectious disease, chronic pain management, addiction treatment and wound care, is encouraging people to separate fact from fiction.
Throughout her career, Ellard has worked in burn care, hospital medicine, infectious disease and wound care. She says one of the biggest challenges is correcting misconceptions before they become bigger problems.
“I’ve always believed that learning never really stops. Every experience teaches you something that helps you care for patients better.”
Below are five common myths that often mislead individuals.
Myth 1: “If a wound doesn’t hurt, it isn’t serious.”
Why people believe it:
Many people assume pain is the best indicator that something is wrong.
The reality:
Some serious wounds and infections cause little or no pain, especially in people with diabetes, poor circulation or nerve damage. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes can reduce sensation in the feet, making injuries easy to miss until they become severe.
Practical tip:
Inspect cuts, blisters and wounds every day if you have diabetes or poor circulation. If redness, swelling, drainage or delayed healing develops, seek medical advice promptly.
“Patience and compassion for patients are two of the most important parts of this job.”
Myth 2: “Antibiotics cure every infection.”
Why people believe it:
Antibiotics have been widely used for decades, leading many people to think they work against every illness.
The reality:
The CDC estimates that at least 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur each year in the United States. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections and do not work against viruses such as the common cold or influenza.
Practical tip:
Take antibiotics only as prescribed and always complete the prescribed course unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
Myth 3: “Once a wound starts healing, you can stop paying attention to it.”
Why people believe it:
A wound that appears smaller or less painful often seems like it no longer needs care.
The reality:
Healing continues beneath the surface. Infection or delayed healing can still develop even after a wound looks better.
Practical tip:
Continue following wound care instructions until a healthcare professional confirms that healing is complete.
“I wanted to understand the infectious process rather than just treating the wound.”
Myth 4: “Asking questions means you’re bothering your healthcare provider.”
Why people believe it:
Some people worry they are taking up too much time or asking unnecessary questions.
The reality:
Good communication helps healthcare teams identify problems earlier and reduce preventable complications. Patients who understand their treatment plans are generally more likely to follow them successfully.
Practical tip:
Write down your questions before appointments and ask for clarification if something is unclear. Never leave without understanding your next steps.
Myth 5: “Waiting another day won’t make much difference.”
Why people believe it:
People often hope symptoms will improve on their own.
The reality:
Early treatment frequently prevents more serious complications. Delays can allow infections to spread and become harder to treat.
Ellard says this lesson became especially meaningful during one experience early in her career.
“I learned to never delay care again and to consult other specialists while waiting for lab results.”
Practical tip:
If a wound suddenly becomes more painful, develops spreading redness, produces pus, or you develop a fever, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.
If You Only Remember One Thing
Don’t let assumptions guide your healthcare decisions. Small symptoms can become larger problems when ignored, while early attention and accurate information often make treatment simpler and more effective.
“I stay humble and grateful for how far I have come since graduating college.”
Linda Ellard encourages everyone to keep learning, ask questions and avoid relying on myths when making decisions about their health.
Call to Action
Share these five myths with a friend or family member today. Then choose one practical tip to put into practice immediately. Small actions, better questions and earlier attention can help people make more informed healthcare decisions.
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Linda Ellard
Linda Ellard is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse-Clinical Nurse Specialist (APRN-CNS). She began her nursing career in Tulsa in 2009 after growing up in Michigan and has built experience in burn care, hospital medicine, infectious disease, chronic pain management, addiction treatment and wound care. Her work focuses on improving patient care through clinical knowledge, collaboration and lifelong learning.
Contact:
SOURCE: Linda Ellard
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
