Ad
related to: simple wound dressing procedure checklist
Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
A dressing or compress [1] is a piece of material such as a pad applied to a wound to promote healing and protect the wound from further harm. A dressing is designed to be in direct contact with the wound, as distinguished from a bandage , which is most often used to hold a dressing in place.
The dressing should be changed and the wound irrigated with normal saline at least twice each day. [4] In addition, it is recommended to administer an antibiotic active against staphylococci and streptococci, preferably vancomycin when there is a risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus . [ 4 ]
Dressings (sterile, applied directly to the wound) Sterile eye pads; Sterile gauze pads; Sterile non-adherent pads, containing a non-stick teflon layer; Petrolatum gauze pads, used as an occlusive (air-tight) dressing for sucking chest wounds, as well as a non-stick dressing; Bandages (for securing dressings, not necessarily sterile)
The adhesive bandage protects the wound and scab from friction, bacteria, damage, and dirt. Thus, the healing process of the body is less disturbed. Some of the dressings have antiseptic properties. An additional function is to hold the two cut edges of the skin together to make the healing process faster. [1]
Ideally, wound dressings should be changed daily to promote a clean environment and allow for daily evaluation of wound progression. Highly exudative wounds and infected wounds should be monitored closely and may require more frequent dressing changes. [33] Negative pressure wound dressings can be changed less frequently, every 2–3 days. [42]
Hydrocolloid dressings are used to treat uninfected wounds. [6] Dressings may be used, under medical supervision, even where aerobic infection is present; the infection should be treated appropriately. [citation needed] The dressing is applied to a cleaned wound. Hydrocolloid patches are sometimes used on the face for acne.
Get AOL Mail for FREE! Manage your email like never before with travel, photo & document views. Personalize your inbox with themes & tabs. You've Got Mail!
These dressings are generally made with a waxy coating so as to provide a total seal, and as a result do not have the absorbent properties of gauze pads. They are typically used to treat open, or "sucking," chest wounds ( open pneumothorax ) to prevent a tension pneumothorax (a serious complication of a simple pneumothorax).
Ad
related to: simple wound dressing procedure checklist