Hydrocolloid dressings are moist dressings that contain absorbent ingredients that retain wound exudate, a weeping fluid containing protein and cellular debris. The exudate should be minimal to moderate amounts for hydrocolloids to effectively absorb the drainage. The dressings can be applied to treat acute or chronic wounds extending through partial or full-thickness of the skin. According to "Advances in Skin & Wound Care," hydrocolloid dressings come in three available types: pastes, powders and sheets.
Supports Debridement
An important principle of wound care is first removing necrotic, or dead, tissue and slough from the wound bed so healing can start with growth of new, healthy tissue. Hydrocolloid dressings form a gel when the dressing matrix absorbs exudate and traps it in. When the dressing is changed, the absorbed bacteria, dead tissue and debris are removed in the gel. Dr. David Arnall of Northern Arizona University states this process helps "clean" the wound and support a process called autolytic debridement, in which your body destroys and dissolves dead tissue on its own.
Promotes Healing
The Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing (JWOCN) states that when wounds are kept in a moist environment, healing rates are faster along with decreased scar formation. When wounds are left exposed to air, the surface dries up and healing slows down. Hydrocolloid dressings provide this moist environment because of its occlusive nature, meaning it seals out air as well as water and bacteria.
Infection Control
An open wound predisposes the body to infection because skin's protective barriers are disrupted. Due to the occlusive seal of hydrocolloid dressings, bacteria outside the wound cannot permeate in. At the same time, the bacteria inside of the wound, along with dead tissue, are absorbed into the gel matrix thus decreasing chances of infection. According to the JWOCN, hydrocolloid dressings have the lowest associated incidence of infection.
References
- "Advances in Skin & Wound Care"; When to Use Hydrocolloid Dressings; Cathy Thomas Hess B.S.N., R.N., CWOCN; March/April 2000
- Northern Arizona University: Wound Care Products
- "Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing"; A Review of Moisture-Control Dressings in Wound Care; D.W. Brett, M.S.; November/December 2006
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