UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS FOR MEDICAL SCIENCES

MEDICAL CENTER

PROCEDURE

PROCEDURE:

134

EFFECTIVE:

8/82

REVISION:

9/06

APPROVAL:

9/06

PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION AND REMOVAL OF TRANSPARENT DRESSING ON DERMAL WOUND

PURPOSE: To promote dermal wound healing, and prevent skin stripping.

SUPPORTIVE DATA: Transparent dressings support the body’s mechanisms for dermal wound healing by creating a clean moist environment. This clean, moist environment is possible because the dressing is impermeable to bacteria, but permeable to oxygen and moisture vapor.

EQUIPMENT:

1.        Transparent dressing - to fit at least 2 inches beyond the area to be covered

2.        Saline

3.        4x4 gauze

4.        Paper tape

5.        Skin sealant/protectant wipes

6.        Scissors

7.        Ink pen

8.        Non-sterile gloves

NURSING ACTION:

PROCEDURE STEPS:

A.      Application

1.        Inspect wound for signs and symptoms of active infection, and assess for necrotic tissue.

KEYPOINT: If present, refer to MD or enterostomal therapist.

2.        Apply non-sterile gloves.

3.        Prepare skin by cleaning wound with saline. Let surrounding skin dry, or pat dry with 4x4.

4.        Apply skin sealant on healthy skin around wound where dressing or tape will be applied to prevent skin stripping (tape burns). Let dry.

5.        Pull off the paper backing and anchor to the skin.

KEY POINT: Remember to clear the wound by 2 inches.

6.        Remove top and edge portions of the paper backing.

7.        Date, time, and initial dressing.

KEY POINT: Remember long term dressings are not appropriate on sacral ulcers of incontinent patients.

B.       Maintenance/Changing the Dressing

1.        Remove dressing q 48° -72° or earlier, if needed.

2.        Hold skin with one hand and pull gently with the other hand.

KEY POINT: Exudate will accumulate under the dressing as this is part of the healing process.

REFERENCES:
Black, J and Hawks, Jane. (2005) Medical-Surgical Nursing, 7th Edition, p. 411.

RESOURCE PERSON: Joyce Randof, RN, MNSc; Donella Doctor, RN, MNSc, CWOCN: Amanda Pennington BSN, RN, WOCN