Hydrocolloid Dressings

Certain wounds such as bedsores and burn wounds may not be infected, but they may be exuding or leaking fluid. These types of wounds need a special covering called hydrocolloid dressing. This type of wound dressing traps moisture so that the wound can stay hydrated during the healing process. It also promotes autolytic debridement, which is the natural process that removes dead tissue so wounds can heal. Hydrocolloid formulation, unlike dry gauze coverings, keeps the body’s enzymes working to help heal wounds while it absorbs excess fluids. These wound dressings are easy to apply and don't have to be changed as often as other dressings. Honest Medical offers a wide range of hydrocolloid dressings in a variety of shapes and thicknesses for advanced wound care. Typically, they can be molded around the wound, so they are an excellent choice for wounds in places such as heels and elbows.

What Are the Components in Hydrocolloid Dressings?

Many wounds, such as bedsores and ulcers cannot be successfully dealt with using standard gauze and tape protocols. Hydrocolloid dressing includes features that can support healing in leaking wounds better than dry bandages.

• Inside, they have gel-like agents that keep the dressing moist while absorbing a moderate amount of leakage.
• The outer layer in some brands is semi-transparent so that the wound is visible without removing the dressing.
• Most of these dressings have an adhesive border that keeps them in place.

What Type of Wounds Require These Dressings?

Hydrocolloid Dressings are ideal for wounds that are infection-free but are still severe enough to require flexible dressings. The following are the type of wounds that typically benefit from this dressing:

• Bedsores and Leg Ulcers: These types of wounds are best served by hydrocolloid dressings because they cushion the wound and reduce further pressure while promoting healing.
• Some Types of Burns: These dressings are sometimes used on superficial burns involving the outer layers of skin where they provide protection from infection and cushion the burn while it heals.
• Superficial Wounds: Minor burns and abrasions can benefit from moist dressings because they provide a protective barrier that retains moisture while wounds heal.
• Some Surgery Wounds: A surgical wound that is not exuding heavily is suitable for these dressings. The moist environment they create is ideal for healing. They are also the right choice for wounds healing by secondary intention – these are wounds that because of their nature could not be closed with stitches.
• Diabetic Wounds: Hydrocolloid dressings are often used for diabetic wounds, especially diabetic foot ulcers. As with other applications, they create a moist barrier that cushions and protects against infection.

Some Tips on Using Hydrocolloid Dressings

The steps for wound care with these dressings are similar to best practices for any type of wound. The following are a few tips for success with changing a hydrocolloid dressing. As with any wound or illness, be sure to consult your doctor if you are caring for wounds at home.

• Select a dressing that is one to two inches larger than the wound. Honest Medical carries a wide range of sizes so you can get the dressing you need.
• Cleanliness is critical. This type of dressing should be changed every three to seven days. Wash your hands and wear gloves; wash the wound with saline or wound cleaner; and apply a moisture barrier to the skin around the wound before applying the dressing.
• Some hydrocolloid dressings have adhesive borders, some do not, so you will have to apply tape if the dressing does not include it.
• To remove the dressing, gently press down on the edge while lifting up the adhesive on one side. This allows you to carefully peel the dressing off.
• Be sure to safely discard all used dressings and gloves.

Learn More

Discover helpful information on a variety of topics in Honest Ideas, our blog. The following articles provide a more detailed look at wound care:

• Mastering Wound Care at Home: Vital Tips and Best Practices
• Essential Steps for Burn Wound Care: A Caregiver’s Guide to Effective Treatment
• Bedsores: Stages, Treatment and Prevention

If you have any questions about hydrocolloid dressings or any of our products, contact an Honest Medical Care Specialist at (833) 933-2323.