The Medelast ® Alginate Dressing is one of the best wound dressings to promote the wound healing, The absorbent alginate fibers in the dressing, gel on contact with the wound fluid and gently conform to the wound surface. Alginates absorb exudates away from the wound whilst maintaining an ideal moist wound environment.
* Dressing absorbs exudate, forms a gel that keeps the wound moist and protects from contamination
* Alginate dressing absorbs wound exudates
* Absorbs approximately 20 times the dressing’s weight
* Unique composition and weaving pattern help provide a simplified one piece removal
How do Alginate Dressings Assist in Healing?
When used to dress a wound which is exuding heavily, the calcium ions in the dressing interact with the sodium ions in the fluid of the wound. This reaction makes the fiber in the dressing to swell and partially dissolve into a gel. How much the alginate dressing swells depends on the chemical composition of the product and the botanical source.
Steps in Using Alginate Dressing
In general, using an alginate dressing is a straightforward process that follows the best practices of wound care:
Use saline (or wound cleanser) to clean the wound area.
Pat the wound dry.
Place the alginate dressing on the wound.
If required, place a secondary dressing on top the alginate to hold it in place and to absorb excess fluid.
Inspect the dressing daily, examining the wound site daily if infected.
Change the bandage once every 5-7 days or when exudate leaks from the edges or into the secondary bandage.
When removing the alginate dressing, use saline to dampen it first and avoid damage to the (the wound bed/granulation tissue)
If the dressing sticks to the wound, use saline irrigation to rinse.
Benefits of Alginate Dressings
Along with being an excellent absorbent, alginate dressings protect the affected area from bacterial infections and maintain a moist environment that promotes quicker and more efficient healing. Alginate dressing is easy to apply and has high manipulability. Furthermore, few individuals are allergic to alginates.
Photo of Medelast® Alginate Wound Dressing
