Hydrogel dressing is one of the commonly used functional dressings, which is widely used not only in clinical wound treatment, but also in daily life, such as hydrogel plaster for small wound care and hydrogel acne patch for local treatment of acne. Functional dressings are mainly used for wound healing and are widely used in the prevention of phlebitis; this is where the role of plasters comes into play for acute minor injuries.
1. What is the difference between the gelation phenomenon of hydrogel and wound exudate?
When hydrogel dressing contacts with wound exudate, it absorbs the liquid and transforms into a gel-like substance, which is called the gelation phenomenon. The characteristics of the formed gel are determined by the production formula of different manufacturers. The gel formed by some manufacturers of Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages has a certain degree of cohesion, and the gel is kept inside the structure of the dressing; while the gel formed by some manufacturers is loose, covering the wound, it is easy to be mistaken for wound exudate or even infection, but actually it nourishes the wound and promotes wound healing.
2. What is the suitable time for changing Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages?
Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages are easy and convenient to use, and they do not need to be changed frequently. Generally, they need to be changed every 3-5 days. At this time, due to the absorption of exudate by the dressing, the viscosity decreases, so it will not cause pain and damage when removed. After absorbing the exudate, the hydrogel dressing will transform into a gel, which will expand locally and turn white, so attention should be paid to observing the degree of exudate absorption by the dressing. When the white area approaches the edge of the dressing, it should be replaced in time.
3. How much liquid can Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages absorb?
The liquid absorption capacity of Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages varies greatly among different manufacturers, and is closely related to the length of use. Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages are not suitable for moderate to highly exudative wounds. Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages like extra large hydrocolloid dressings are essentially moisturizing dressings that maintain a moisture environment after absorbing and locking exudates, with a certain degree of exudate absorption capacity, but not strong. They are only suitable for low to moderate exudate wounds.
4. What is the role of Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages in preventing and treating scars?
The role of silicone dressings in the prevention and treatment of scars has been confirmed, but what about Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages? A prospective study found that Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages significantly relieved patients' itching and pain and increased the flexibility of scars after two months of treatment. The pigmentation also decreased, indicating that Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages can alleviate the symptoms of scars.
5. Can Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages relieve pain?
Pain is one of the characteristics of superficial wounds, especially during dressing changes. The results of a prospective study showed that Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages can better relieve patients' pain and promote faster healing of the wound bed. The exact mechanism by which Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages relieve pain is still not very clear, but some studies have provided some explanations, such as the fact that nerve endings feel less pain in a moist environment and the sealing property of Hydrocolloid adhesive bandages which can better protect the wound bed.
In summary, as an excellent sealing dressing, hydrogel dressing can effectively protect wounds, prevent the invasion of bacteria and viruses, maintain a moist healing environment, promote wound healing, reduce scars, and alleviate pain and wound damage during dressing changes. So, please feel free to choose it!
