Wound Dressings - Transparent Film Dressings By Laurie Swezey

Many health care professionals use transparent dressings on a frequent basis, but may not be aware of the purpose of these dressings. In fact, these dressings are not meant for all wounds. Read on to discover everything you ever needed to know about transparent film dressings.

Product Overview

Transparent film dressings are thin dressings which have no ability to absorb fluids. They act as a "second skin". Imitating your outermost skin layer, they keep a moist wound environment, similar to a blister. They are semi-permeable to gases and have the ability to transmit moisture vapour. These types of dressings permit the migration of epithelial cells over the wound surface. Fluid often accumulates under these dressings.

Indications

-can be used on stage 1 and 2 pressure ulcers
-superficial wounds
-lacerations, or to cover sutured wounds
-minor burns
-to protect catheter sites and donor sites
-superficial dermal ulcers
-can be used to protect against friction

Contraindications

-must be applied to healthy skin, not to aging or fragile skin
-not recommended for infants or small children
-do not use on exudation wounds
-do not use for infected wounds

Advantages

-a cleaner wound surface is created as the accumulation of fluid under the dressing creates an autoloytic environment
-an excellent protective barrier against surface contaminants, bacteria and fluid
-provides protection from friction
-aids in pain control
-aids in autolytic debridement
-can be used as a secondary dressing
-can be left on for up to 7 days
-numerous shapes and sizes are available to fit a wide variety of wounds

Disadvantages

-fluid which accumulates under the dressing is sometimes mistakenly identified as pus
-the dressing needs to be changed when fluid accumulates excessively or leaks out the side of the dressing
-maceration of the skin around the wound (periwound) may occur if the dressing is not changed when it should be

When removing the dressing, care must be taken to ensure that you don't tear or damage the skin. To remove, lift the corner of the dressing and pull the film outwards to the edges of the wound to break the barrier. It is important to support the surrounding skin during dressing removal.

In addition, some prefer to use skin protective sprays or wipes on the periwound area before application of the dressing. These help to keep the dressing edges from rolling.

Perhaps reading the last few articles regarding wound dressings has made you realize that there are many things you aren't aware of when it comes to managing wounds in your client population. If so, we will be continuing our series on types of dressings over the next couple of months. If you would like to become truly expert in caring for your clients' wounds, you may consider becoming certified in wound care management. For more information, visit WoundEducators.com to find out how you can start today.For details email:freediabetictips@gmail.com