Common Dressings for Pressure Ulcers

Common Dressings for Pressure Ulcers

Transparent Dressings (Stage I and II Pressure Ulcers)

■ Waterproof; maintains moisture and prevents bacterial contamination. ■ For superficial wounds, blisters, and skin tears.

Hydrogel Dressings (Stage II, III, and IV Pressure Ulcers)

■ Provides moist wound environment. Reduces pain and soothes. ■ For dry, sloughy wound beds; cleanses and débrides.

Hydrocolloid Dressings (Stage II and III Pressure Ulcers)

■ For autolytic débridement of dry, sloughy, or necrotic wounds. ■ For wounds with low to moderate amounts of exudate.

Alginate Dressings (Stage III and IV Pressure Ulcers)

■ Available in pads, ropes, or ribbons. ■ For wounds with moderate to heavy amounts of exudate.

Foam Dressings (Stage III and IV Pressure Ulcers)

■ Highly absorbent; may be left on for 3–4 days before changing. ■ For wounds with heavy exudate, deep cavities, weeping ulcers. ■ Used after débridement or desloughing of pressure ulcers.