Hydrocolloids

Authors: Christian Kaare Paaskesen, Med. Stud., Hasan Gökcer Tekin, MD

Wound bed assessment

Granulating
Sloughy

Moisture assessment

Dry wounds

Contra- indications

Infected
Wet wounds

Advantages

Hydrocolloids are only used on spontaneously moist wounds and will not disrupt the bacterial cycle of slough, as they protect from bacterial contamination. A moist and warm environment is secured, favoring all stages of healing, from cleansing to epimerization. Patients can shower, and dressing changes are painless as hydrocolloids do not adhere to the wound bed.

Disadvantages

Hydrocolloids disintegrate when in contact with exudate and transforms into a pus-like substrate. Health-care professionals need to be aware of this appearance which is normal. If a wound is exudating heavily maceration might occur, and a change to a more absorbent dressing is advised. Be cautious when fragile skin is surrounding the wound.