Acticoat is a type of dressing that can be used to cover wounds and other surface injuries. Acticoat is specially made out of fabric (non-woven) made out of rayon and polyester sandwiched between two layers of a mesh made out of polyethylene, which is then coated in silver. It is specially made so that the dressing is strong and very resistant to coming apart. It is typically sold in individual packets that have been specially prepated to keep them sterile.
Step 1
Take the Acticoat dressing out of the package (while wearing latex or nitrile gloves). Cut the dressing to the desired shape.
Step 2
Immerse the dressing in sterile water.
Step 3
Pat dry on a clean, sterile surface (if used in a surgical setting, place in a sterile area of the operating area) and allow to dry on an absorbent surface for 2 minutes.
Step 4
Place the dressing on the surface of the wound. Either side of the dressing can be applied; they are both the same.
Step 5
Immerse a piece of gauze (the same size or slightly larger than the Acticoat dressing) in sterile water and then wring it out. Cover the Acticoat dressing with the gauze.
Step 6
Complete the dressing with gauze wrappings (if appropriate) and then attach the dressing (using surgical tape or other adhesive).
Tips and Warnings
- It is important to wear latex or nitrile gloves while handling Acticoat dressings to avoid contamination.
Things You'll Need
- Gloves (latex or nitrile)
- Sterile water
- Gauze
- Surgical tape
