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The Future of IV Cannulation Velfix® IV Kit

Vascular access in surgical settings is virtually indispensable. The intravenous administration of fluids, medications, blood products and parenteral nutrition, whether peripherally or centrally, is a routine practice in healthcare setups.

The same has been documented in several medical journals such as The American Journal of Epidemiology and the Annals of Pharmacotherapy. According to which, up to 80% of hospitalised patients in recent medical practice receive intravenous therapy while they are admitted.

Peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) is the most widely used method for intravenous therapy. Although insertion of cannula and subsequent intravenous therapy are generally well tolerated, complications may arise that may lead to a prolonged hospitalisation. These complications may include Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSI), Bruising & vein irritation or Blockage. 

Fact:
Epidemiological studies from Europe and US region indicate the incidence of CR-BSI as a percentage of catheters inserted, is between 3% and 7%. (Infections caused by intravascular devices used for infusion therapy: pathogenesis, prevention and management. In: Bison AL, Waldvogel FA, eds. Infections associated with medical devices. Washington DC: ASM Press, 1994:155–205.)

It is vital to understand that any procedure that punctures the skin comes with a risk of associated infections. Since IV sits directly in your bloodstream, a regular observation of the IV site and strict procedures to prevent infection must be practiced by the nursing staff. These will include maintaining good aseptic techniques to minimise the risk of local and systemic infections. 

The CDC Guidelines:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued certain Guidelines For The Prevention Of Intravascular Catheter-Related Infections. These have been developed for healthcare personnel who insert intravascular catheters and for persons responsible for surveillance and control of infections in hospital, outpatient, and home healthcare settings.

These guidelines include Selection of Catheters; Hand Hygiene & Aseptic Techniques; Maximal Sterile Barrier Precautions; Skin Preparation; Catheter Site Dressing Regimens; Cleansing; Catheter Securement Devices etc.

  • It is recommended to prepare a clean skin with an antiseptic (70% alcohol, tincture of iodine, an iodophor or chlorhexidine gluconate) before peripheral venous catheter insertion.
  • The use of either a sterile gauze or sterile, transparent, semipermeable dressing to cover the catheter site are recommended.
  • It is also suggested to monitor the catheter sites visually when the dressings are changed or by palpation through an intact dressing on a systematically, depending on the clinical situation of each patient. 

We have introduced a high utility, highly effective IV Cannulization dressing kit specially designed to take care of insertion & dressing change of peripheral vascular devices. 

VELFIX®-IV KIT

A sterile IV Dressing Kit for cannula fixation, including 4 contents in accordance with CDC guidelines.

  • Tourniquet: The kit comes with a latex free tourniquet which helps to identify the veins. Since it is a non-reusable tourniquet, there are a reduced chances of cross- contamination due to carrier property of Velcro tourniquets and thereby preventing skin allergy.
  • Antiseptic Swab: A 70% IPA Swab/chlorhexidine gluconate CHG swab is included in the kit which is considered ideal for skin preparation before peripheral venous catheter insertion. This falls under Category 1B as per Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) implying strong recommendation for implementation, supported by some experimental, clinical, or epidemiologic studies, a strong theoretical rationale; or an accepted practice supported by limited evidence.
  • Velfix® -Edge IV Dressing (7cm x 9cm): Transparent IV dressing with Window Frame delivery design to allow continuous observation of the IV site while providing better seal around the catheter with stabilization non-woven boarders. The notched design ensures effective stabilization of the catheter. The transparent film of the dressing serves as a waterproof sterile barrier to external contaminants. The film is breathable in nature providing high MVTR with an effective wear time of up to 7 days. The dressing comes with a hypoallergenic, latex-free adhesive that is gentle to the skin yet holds catheter in place. It offers single hand application & gentle removal.

The Sterile Gauze Swab of the Velfix® -I.V. Kit is available to control the back flash of blood.

We Datt Mediproducts understand that catheter stabilization is imperative to decrease the risk for phlebitis, catheter migration and dislodgement, and potentially in preventing CR-BSIs. Velfix-IV Kit is an effective and high utility securement device which avoids disruption around the catheter entry site and may reduce the degree of bacterial colonization also. 

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.