| Post-Operative Care
- Section Summary |
|
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.
