A wound dressing is a material or device that is applied to a wound to promote healing and protect it from further damage or infection. Wound dressings can come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are often made from materials such as gauze, foam, hydrocolloid, or film. Modern dressings will actively contribute to healing by managing exudate and infection.
Wound dressings serve many important functions in wound care. First and foremost, they protect the wound from further trauma and infection. A properly applied wound dressing can create a barrier between the wound and the outside environment, reducing the risk of contamination by bacteria or other pathogens. This is especially important for open wounds, which are vulnerable to infection and can become a serious health risk if left untreated.
In addition to protecting the wound from infection, wound dressings can also help to promote healing by providing a moist environment for the wound to heal in. This is important because wounds that are allowed to dry out can take longer to heal and are more prone to scarring. By keeping the wound moist, wound dressings can promote the growth of new tissue and speed up the healing process.
Another important function of wound dressings is to absorb any exudate or fluid that may be present in the wound. Exudate is a fluid that is produced by the body in response to injury or infection and can contain bacteria, dead tissue, and other waste materials. By absorbing this fluid, wound dressings can help to keep the wound clean and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
There are many different types of wound dressings available, and the choice of dressing will depend on a number of factors, including the type and severity of the wound, the amount of exudate present, and the overall health of the patient. Some dressings are meant to be primary in direct contact with the wound bed. Secondary dressings are typically cover dressings that provide absorption or protection. If the secondary dressing does not have adhesive backing then a tertiary dressing like a gauze wrap may be needed to secure it. Common types of wound dressings include:
- Gauze dressings: These are the most commonly used type of wound dressing, and consist of a layer of gauze that is placed over the wound and held in place with tape or a bandage. Gauze dressings are fairly cheap and widely available. Gauze however can cause issues by sticking to new fragile tissue causing trauma on removal and pain.
- Hydrocolloid dressings: These dressings are made from a gel-like substance that forms a protective barrier over the wound. Hydrocolloid dressings are good shallow openings and a bit of slough present. Hydrocolloids have a longer wear time than gauze and the occlusive nature promotes autolytic debridement.
- Foam dressings: These dressings are made from a soft, absorbent material that can be used to cover wounds with exudate. Foam dressings are designed to soak up fluid like a sponge and hold it within the dressing. Foam dressings are good for wounds that are deep or difficult to dress, as they can conform to the shape of the wound. They often have an adhesive component incorporated into the dressing which makes foam easy to use and apply.
- Film dressings: These dressings are made from a thin, transparent material that is applied directly to the wound. Film dressings are good for wounds that are superficial or mostly healed. They provide protection from bacteria and friction.
- Alginate dressings: Alginates are a biodegradable highly absorbent dressing derived from seaweed. They typically are applied directly into a larger open wound with tunneling, undermining and significant drainage. Alginates need to be covered by a secondary dressing to hold it in place and provide a barrier.
- Collagen dressings: Collagen dressings come in gels, powders and sheets that can donate bioactive properties while also absorbing exudate. Collagen is typically derived from bovine, porcine or marine sources. These are primary dressings that will need a cover dressing to secure in place.
It is important to note that wound dressings should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as the wrong type of dressing or incorrect application can do more harm than good. The goal of a wound dressing is to provide moisture balance. Wet wounds would be further damaged by adding a moist dressing and dry wounds do not need a heavily absorbent dressing. In addition, it is important to change wound dressings regularly to ensure that the wound is clean and healing properly.
Some dressings contain antimicrobial properties like silver or honey that can limit bacteria growth. Silver and honey are typically compounded into a gel, alginate or collagen as a mode of delivery to the affected area. Some wound treatments will need to include a prescription ointment, cream or lotion to help treat an infection. Usually, when someone is presenting with an infection, they are treated with oral antibiotics. However, using topical agents that limit contamination with be useful to treat the source of the infection locally as well as the systemically. For some heavily draining, odoriferous wounds dressings containing carbon can help to neutralize odor.
In conclusion, wound dressings are an essential component of wound care, and can play a critical role in promoting healing and preventing infection. If you have a wound that requires dressing, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best type of dressing for your specific needs. By following proper wound care techniques and using the right type of dressing, you can help ensure that your wound heals quickly and safely. For individuals with issues that delay healing like poor circulation, diabetes and poor mobility working with a certified wound specialist from the time of initial injury can prevent a chronic non-healing wound issue.
©2020 Human Biosciences, Inc. The content presented here is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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Ridley Vann
Mr. Vann oversees E-Commerce, Inventory, and Facilities, ensuring optimal product and supply management across medical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic lines.
With a dedication to accuracy and reliability, he brings a wealth of experience as an innovative project coordinator adept at managing diverse initiatives and streamlining processes.
He holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Environmental Science and Technology from the University of Maryland and started his career at the Smithsonian Institution, spearheading green initiatives for the annual Folklife Festival with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
Nisha Jain Vann
Creative Director, Human BioSciences
Mrs. Vann is responsible for branding, design, and public outreach efforts for the company.
Mrs. Vann has over five years of experience in the creative design arena. She has spearheaded multiple marketing campaigns, both domestic and international.
She also has experience producing several television and live-stage programs. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Film and Video Studies from George Mason University.
Jack Slovick
Mr. Slovick is responsible for all regulatory and quality affairs in the company.
Mr. Slovick has worked in regulatory, quality, and clinical services within the medical device and diagnostics industry for nearly 40 years.
He founded Methodize Inc., to offer strategic support for approval of medical devices and in vitro diagnostics products. Mr. Slovick has a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems.
Jigar Patel
Vice President of Operations, Human BioSciences
Mr. Patel is the Vice President of Operations for Human BioSciences. As such, he is responsible for strategy development for optimal growth, organizing multiple teams and implementing optimal product delivery for the growth of HBS.
He has served multiple positions within HBS since 2001, including Operations Manager.
With an MBA in Pharmaceutical Healthcare and a Bachelor’s in Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Patel brings deep technical knowledge in collagen product production with a rich history in managing teams.
David H. Dickieson
General Counsel
Mr. Dickieson, as General Counsel, is involved with Human Biosciences’ efforts to expand internationally while aiding with growth and legal compliance in the U.S.
He has over 40 years of experience as a trial attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice and with Washington, D.C. law firms. His law degree is from the University of Michigan and he received a Bachelors Degree in Government from Cornell.
Dr. Rohan K Jain
President, Human BioSciences
As the President of Human BioSciences, Dr. Rohan K Jain is responsible for the company’s overall operations, with a focus on research and development.
Dr. Jain has supervised and conducted extensive research in the collagen, biomaterials, and protein space, resulting in the release of numerous new products to the market.
Prior to his role at HBS, Dr. Jain was a capital markets attorney at Shearman & Sterling LLP. He received his Doctorate in Law and his MBA from New York University; his Bachelor’s degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science and his Master’s in Engineering Management from Johns Hopkins University. He is a member of the New York and Maryland bars.