Hydrocolloid Dressing Flashcards
Aim of this type of dressing is to ?
Provide a moist healing environment and insulation while using the body’s own moisture and enzymes to keep the wound bed hydrated for proper wound healing
When do I use hydrocolloid dressings?
These dressings can be used on many different types of wounds, and they have the best effects on those that are uninfected, of partial or full thickness and have low to moderate drainage.
Clinicians often suggest hydrocolloid dressings for granular and necrotic wounds, as the products protect intact and newly healed skin. These wound dressings may not be suitable for wounds with high exudate.
Hydrocolloid dressings come with a multitude of benefits, including these main advantages:
Impermeable to protect against bacteria and other outside invaders
Doesn’t adhere to the wound, only the surrounding skin, thereby keeping healed skin intact
Easy to apply to wound site
Can be used in conjunction with venous compression products
Minimal disruption to healing as it needs to be changed only once every several day
These wound dressings also come with a variety of disadvantages, including:
Not intended for wounds with infection, sinus tracts or heavy exudate
Can become dislodged in the case of heavy exudate
Wound assessments made more difficult by opaque hydrocolloids
Can roll up or curl at the edges
Dressing residue can stick to the wound bed and cause an unpleasant odor after dressing removal
May lead to hypergranulation
Skin around the wound may begin to macerate
