Superabsorbent

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

Wound bed assessment

Granulating

Moisture assessment

Wet wounds

Contra-indications

Low exuding wounds

Advantages

Superabsorbent dressings are designed to retain and absorb fluid, minimizing maceration, dressing changes and nurse inputs. They can often be molded and cut to fit and exist with or without border. They are rarely used as primary dressings in chronic wounds but are ideal as a secondary dressings absorbing exudate.

Disadvantages

The superabsorbent nature of these dressings will over time make them heavy and uncomfortable for the patient which might result in lower compliance. It’s important to note, that the dressing swelling can increase local pressure on the wound bed and surrounding skin.