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  Wound Bed Preparation
  Application
    Scaffold Remodeling
    Inspection and care of the site
Movement/outpatient care
    Hematoma
    Fluid accumulation
    Purulence/infection
    Premature silicone separation
  Summary
Summary
   


Post-Operative Care - Section Summary
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In this section, you have learned:

  • Each dressing is designed to perform a specific function. Ultimately, the goal of the dressings is
    to protect the INTEGRA™ Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing by preventing shearing and dislodgement, while still enabling routine visual examination. The use of antimicrobials is essential in reducing the risk of infection. Acticoat*, silver nitrate 0.5% and Sulfamylon® Solution 5% are most commonly used.
  • Dressings should be built in layers to protect the INTEGRA™ Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing site from shear and infection as follows:

    A: The antimicrobial layer (e.g., moistened Acticoat*) is applied. It is important to remoisten or re-apply antimicrobial dressings as needed. The antimicrobial layer is most critical during the first week after application.

    B: A bulky gauze dressing is applied over the antimicrobial layer to protect the site and to help reduce the potential of shearing and graft dislodgement. It also helps keep the antimicrobial dressing moist and in contact with INTEGRA™ Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing.

    C: A compression bandage is applied over the bulky dressing. The compression wrap provides additional support and protection. As edema subsides, the wrap should be re-applied to ensure it is snug.

  • When making a dressing change: Take down the dressing and inspect INTEGRA™ Matrix Wound Dressing by checking seams, interstices, and edges for signs of hematomas, infection, fluid accumulation, and areas of non-take. Re-apply or re-moisten the antimicrobial layer as needed.

  • Your visual inspection regimen should include recognition of healing wound tissue as well as the ability to identify the various complications that may arise. The color ranges from red to pink to orange/peach to vanilla. Your ability to distinguish healthy tissue from that which requires intervention will come largely from your own experience.

To continue your review of the COURSE, select a new section from the course outline on the left side of your screen or simply click on "Next."

*Acticoat is a registered trademark of Smith & Nephew, Inc.
 
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