How Do You Apply And Use Hydrocolloid Dressings?
Hydrocolloid dressings can significantly speed and enhance wound healing when used correctly. Wash hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. Choose the right size hydrocolloid dressing. Hydrocolloid dressings come in various sizes and shapes. Make sure that the gauze pad has enough surface area to cover the entire skin wound. Clean the skin wound that is to be dressed. Use water and a mild antiseptic cleanser. Make sure there is no visible dirt or particles in or around the wound. Let the area air-dry. Dab the skin around the wound with a towel, if necessary, but don’t touch the wound itself. It may take a minute or more to air-dry completely. Don’t add anything, like antibiotic ointment, to the wound or surrounding skin. This may hamper the ability of the hydrocolloid dressing to heal the wound. Remove the backing from the hydrocolloid dressing, taking care not to touch the sterile gauze pad. Apply the dressing to the wound. Make sure the gauze completely covers the entire wound. Avo
