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Transparent IV Dressings A Better VAD Securement Option over Gauze & Tapes

Vascular Access Devices (VADs) are an essential element of modern medicine and healthcare.

Vascular access devices (VADs) are inserted into veins via peripheral or central vessels for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons, such as blood sampling, central venous pressure readings, administration of medication, fluids, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and blood transfusions.

It has been documented that about 90% of hospitalized patients require VADs, which help in the administration of medications, fluids, nutrition, and monitoring & diagnostics. Although the insertion of such devices has become a routine procedure, much importance is not given to the securement techniques and dressings.

There are a range of wound dressings and securement devices available used for VAD stabilization. These may include sterile gauze/tape, transparent dressings, antimicrobial dressings, and sutureless securement dressings. Let us discuss IV Dressings as a securement device for VADs in detail.

What are IV Dressings?

IV Dressings are used to secure catheters and IV cannula to the insertion point. These are mostly transparent in nature. IV dressings allow moisture and oxygen transmission while maintaining a slightly damp wound healing environment. These dressings are impermeable to bacteria, germs, and other external contaminants. Thus, these dressings help to maintain a clean and dry catheter site by blocking the germs.

Properties of IV Dressings

  • Conformable
  • Waterproof, allows the patients to shower
  • Permeable to moisture vapor and oxygen
  • Impermeable to external contaminants
  • Effective wear time of up to 7 days
  • Mostly transparent in nature allowing continuous observation
  • Available in a variety of thicknesses and sizes

Benefits of IV Dressings

  1. Provide a barrier to external contaminants: Using a sterile gauze to secure an IV dressing doesn’t provide the barrier against external contaminants. On the other hand, transparent IV dressings are advantageous as these allow an effective impermeable environment to the microorganisms, still being permeable to the water vapours and the oxygen.
  2. Daily Observation: Transparent IV dressings offer an additional advantage of daily continuous observation without removing the dressing.
  3. Reduced number of Dressings: Gauze and Tapes need to be changed after every 2 days. The skin may become fragile by repeated dressing changes and this could further damage the skin. On the other hand, transparent IV dressings can be used for up to 7 days.
  4. Patient Compliance: Less frequent dressing changes offer increased patient comfort. It also helps to maintain skin integrity and lowers the risk of infection and trauma.
  5. Cost Effective: Historically, gauze and tapes were perceived as an inexpensive option over the transparent IV dressings. Nowadays, it has been observed that the cost may be comparable if the therapy continues for more than 3 days.
  6. Additional Benefits: Transparent IV dressings available with additional securement options offer a better stabilization of the catheter, reduce the risk of dislodgement, better wear time and fewer chances of infections.

 Indications

  • IV Cannula Fixation
  • Catheter sites

Changing an IV Dressing

  • Changing an IV Dressing at regular intervals is important. An average dressing change time is 3 to 5 days, these dressings though have an advantageous wear time of up to 7 days.
  • Changing the dressing also keeps bacteria and germs away from the catheter site, thus reducing the risk of infections.
  • The dressing must be changed if any kind of redness or irritation is observed, or if the dressing gets loosened, wet or dirty or if any leakage is present.

Other Considerations

  • Because of the adhesive nature of an IV dressing, its transparent film won’t adhere to a moist surface.
  • Transparent IV dressings are contraindicated in patients who have moderate to heavy exudates, infection, third-degree burns etc.
  • These dressings are not recommended for patients with fragile or thin skin, for example, old age patients. An epidermal stripping or skin tears may also be seen in patients on steroids.

We @ Datt Mediproducts Pvt. Ltd. manufacture and market a range of
I.V. dressings with impeccable quality following international standards.
Our I.V. dressings offer a transparent, waterproof film which acts as a bacterial barrier, yet are breathable.

The Dressings are available with a unique coat technology offering high MVTR (moisture vapour transmission rate). Latex-free and hypoallergenic adhesive is used which gently adheres to the skin and offers an easy removal. Our dressings ensure gentle and effective securement while delivering constant adhesive strength. For more info on our IV dressings, visit www.dattmedi.com or contact us at info@dattmedi.com.

Visit www.dattmedi.com for more infomation.
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CHOOSING THE RIGHT DRESSINGS

Chronic wounds are wounds that fail to heal within the expected time frame, typically lasting more than four weeks. They can arise due to underlying conditions such as diabetes, prolonged pressure, or venous insufficiency. Common types include diabetic ulcers, bed sores, and venous leg ulcers.

Managing chronic wounds presents significant challenges, including a high risk of infection, slow healing, and patient discomfort. The right dressing plays a crucial role in creating an optimal healing environment, reducing complications, and improving patient outcomes.

Types of Chronic Wounds and Their Dressing Needs

Diabetic Ulcers

  • A Diabetic foot ulcer is a debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus. It refers  to an open sore or wound, commonly developing on the feet of people with diabetes.
  • Require moisture balance, infection control, and non-adhesive properties to protect fragile skin.

Bed Sores

  • Bed sores are ulcers which usually develop gradually on the skin and the tissue underneath. Occurring mostly in bed ridden patients, bed sores arise on the skin covering bony areas of the body such as hips, back, tailbone, etc.
  • Demand dressings that redistribute pressure and effectively manage exudate to prevent further skin breakdown.

Venous Leg Ulcers

  • Venous leg ulcers are chronic wounds affecting mostly older adults. They primarily result from prolonged venous insufficiency, which leads to tissue breakdown in lower extremities.
  • Benefit from a combination of compression therapy and absorbent dressings to address venous insufficiency and excessive fluid.

Infected Chronic Wounds

  • Chronic infected wounds are those wounds that do not even start to heal after 4 to 12 weeks despite treatment. They develop due to poor blood circulation, weak immune system or co-morbid conditions such as diabetes.
  • Require antimicrobial dressings to manage bacterial load and prevent further complications.

Key Dressing Options:

VEL NeXT™

  • Designed specifically for chronic wounds, including diabetic ulcers, burns, necrotizing fasciitis, and venous ulcers.
  • Promotes faster wound healing while maintaining an optimal moisture balance.

Velvert®

  • A secure antimicrobial dressing with excellent moisture management.
  • Ideal for wounds at high risk of infection, including diabetic ulcers and chronic wounds.

Silvel™

  • Features nano-crystalline silver for strong antimicrobial action.
  • Features silver for strong antimicrobial action.
  • Suitable for infected or high-risk wounds, particularly bed sores.

Velsap™

  • Designed for moderate to heavily exuding wounds.
  • Provides effective fluid management, reducing the need for frequent dressing changes.

How to Choose the Right Dressing?

Selecting the right dressing requires a comprehensive assessment of several factors:

  • Wound Type: Identify whether the wound is a diabetic ulcer, pressure sore, or venous ulcer.
  • Exudate Levels: Choose absorbent dressings for heavily exuding wounds and moisture-retaining options for dry wounds.
  • Infection Status: Use antimicrobial dressings for infected or high-risk wounds.
  • Patient-Specific Considerations: Factors such as mobility, skin sensitivity, and underlying health conditions must be considered.
Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in guiding dressing selection based on individual wound characteristics and patient needs.

Additional Tips for Chronic Wound Care Management

  • Proper Cleaning & Debridement: Keeping the wound clean and removing dead tissue enhances healing.
  • Regular Monitoring & Dressing Changes: Assessing the wound regularly and changing dressings at the right intervals prevent complications and ensure steady healing.

Chronic wounds require tailored solutions to support healing and prevent complications. Choosing the right dressing—ensures optimal wound care and faster recovery.

Explore our advanced dressing solutions today and find the best option for your wound care needs!

Managing Chronic Wounds

Choosing the Right Dressing for Chronic Wounds

Chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers, pressure sores, and venous leg ulcers, present unique challenges in wound care management. These wounds often resist healing due to underlying conditions such as poor circulation, increased infection risks, prolonged or excessive inflammation, and other patient-specific factors.

Selecting appropriate dressings tailored to the needs of chronic wounds is essential to promote healing and prevent complications.

Chronic wounds develop due to systemic issues that delay natural healing. Common types include:

  • Diabetic Ulcers: These ulcers result from reduced blood flow and nerve damage, often occurring on the feet. Proper care involves maintaining a balance between moisture and dryness, ensuring the wound does not become too dry or overly moist. 
Stat Spotlight

In India, diabetic foot ulcers account for approximately 20% of all diabetes‑related hospitalizations.  ~ Source
  • Pressure Sores: Caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, these wounds are common among bedridden or immobile patients. Managing pressure and ensuring the wound stays clean and protected are vital. 
Stat Spotlight

In India, point‑prevalence studies report that approximately 5% of hospitalized patients have pressure ulcers, underscoring the importance of preventive care.  ~Source
  • Venous Leg Ulcers: These ulcers result from chronic venous insufficiency, in which impaired venous return causes fluid to accumulate in the lower legs, increasing tissue pressure and leading to skin breakdown. Effective management typically centers on graduated compression therapy to improve circulation, alongside advanced dressings to control exudate, leg elevation, and skin care to protect the periwound area.

Managing these wounds involves addressing infection risks, ensuring patient comfort, and promoting effective healing using evidence-based dressing solutions. Selecting the appropriate dressing depends on the type of wound, its condition, and the specific challenges it presents.

Below are some general guidelines:

Diabetic Ulcers

Dressings should maintain moisture balance and provide effective infection control. Non-adhesive dressings are preferred to minimize skin damage during dressing changes. Velvert®, with its strong antimicrobial properties and excellent moisture management, is ideal for diabetic ulcers and wounds at high risk of infection.

Pressure Sores

These wounds require dressings that redistribute pressure and effectively manage exudate to prevent further tissue damage and support healing. Velfix®-S offers both cushioning and absorption, making it a reliable choice for pressure sores and wounds requiring enhanced comfort and protection.

Venous Leg Ulcers

Advanced dressings used in combination with compression therapy are essential for managing exudate and improving circulation. Velfour®, with its high absorption capacity, is well-suited for heavily exuding wounds, including venous leg ulcers.

Infected Wounds

Antimicrobial dressings are effective in managing bacterial growth and reducing the risk of complications. Silvel™ with its strong silver based antimicrobial action and Velvert™ with their strong silver-based antimicrobial action, are suitable for infected or high-risk wounds such as second-degree burns, necrotizing fasciitis, and traumatic wounds.

Here are some types of advanced dressings that address specific wound care needs:

Antimicrobial Dressings

Designed to manage infection risks, these dressings often contain agents like silver to inhibit bacterial growth. Silvel™ and Velvert™ are widely used for diabetic ulcers and pressure sores prone to infection, owing to their strong antimicrobial properties.

Foam Dressings

Highly absorbent, these dressings are ideal for wounds with significant exudate, such as venous leg ulcers. They also offer cushioning to enhance patient comfort. Velsap™ and Velfix®-S are designed for moderate to heavily exuding wounds, ensuring effective fluid management and reduced dressing change frequency.

Multi-Layer Dressings

These dressings provide both absorption and protection, making them effective for managing pressure sores and heavily exuding wounds. Velfour® is an excellent example, offering essential support for such wound types.

Real-Life Example

A 60-year-old diabetic patient in India developed a non-healing foot ulcer. Initially, traditional gauze dressings were used, leading to frequent infections. After switching to Velvert™ antimicrobial dressing, the wound showed significant improvement within four weeks, with reduced exudate and no further infections. This case highlights the importance of selecting the right dressing for chronic wounds.

Practical Tips for Managing Chronic Wounds

Effective wound care goes beyond dressing selection. Here are additional strategies to optimize healing:

  • Proper Cleaning and Debridement: Regularly cleaning the wound and removing dead tissue helps create an optimal environment for healing.
  • Adjunctive Therapies: Techniques like compression therapy for venous ulcers and offloading for diabetic foot ulcers can significantly improve outcomes.
  • Regular Monitoring: Chronic wounds require consistent evaluation to identify changes in size, depth, or signs of infection, allowing timely adjustments in care.
  • Consulting Professionals: Work with healthcare providers to ensure the care plan addresses the wound’s unique needs and aligns with the patient’s overall health condition.

Selecting the right dressing for chronic wounds can significantly improve healing outcomes and enhance patient comfort. By understanding wound characteristics and tailoring treatments accordingly, healthcare professionals can address even the most challenging cases effectively.