Dressings

By Laurie Swezey RN, BSN, CWOCN, CWS, FACCWS

The sheer number of dressings available makes choosing the correct dressing for clients a difficult proposition. Clinicians today have a much wider variety of products to choose from, which can lead to confusion and, sometimes, the wrong type of dressing for a particular wound. Knowing the types of dressings available, their uses and when not to use a particular dressing may be one of the most difficult decisions in wound care management.

Reviewed By Dr. Diane L. Krasner PhD RN CWCN CWS MAPWCA FAAN

Originally published in World Wide Wounds (http://www.worldwidewounds.com/Common/Reviews.html). Used with permission.

By Laurie Swezey RN, BSN, CWOCN, FACCWS

Making decisions in today’s wound care world must take several entities into account. The patient/client and the practitioner must work together to decide on a dressing protocol that meets the needs of both. Additionally, the needs of the practitioner’s employer, whether home care agency, hospital, or other facility, must also be considered (i.e. cost). Appropriate wound care product use must maintain a balance, satisfying the demands of all three entities.

By Laurie Swezey RN, BSN, CWOCN, CWS, FACCWS

Antimicrobial dressings have enjoyed a surge of popularity in recent years- there are now many dressing products on the market containing antimicrobials. However, just because they are available doesn’t mean they are the best choice for your patient. Let’s look at the use/purpose of these dressings, some of the types available and under what conditions they should and should not be used.