Frequently Asked Questions on Transparent Dressings


Transparent Dressings
What are the Transparent Dressings?
Transparent dressings are polymer membranes of varying thickness coated on one side with an adhesive. They are impermeable to liquid, water and bacteria but permeable to moisture vapor and atmospheric gases.
What are the features of Transparent Dressings?
•Moisture responsive High Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate film
•Grid pattern adhesive
•Transparent and conformable
•Wide range of sizes and delivery systems to suit peripheral central line and epidural catheters
•Film acts as a barrier to bacteria
•Improved Breathability
•Improved Wet Adhesion Properties
What are the benefits of Transparent Dressings?
•Allows one-handed aseptic delivery
•Helps prevent roll up
•Impermeable to external liquid and micro-organisms
•Allows moisture and oxygen vapor exchange for longer wear time
•Better adhesion in moist environments
What are the indications of Transparent Dressings?
•Provides physical separation between the catheter site and external environments to assist in preventing contamination of the catheter site
•Creates an environment for managing moisture at the catheter site through increased Moisture Vapor Transmission Rates
When can we use Transparent Dressings?
Transparent Dressings can be used in almost every situation since they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. There are types for pressure sores, types to prevent injuries due to friction such as on toes and heels and types that can even fit oddly-shaped and vulnerable areas like fingers or the coccyx or tailbone. They are not for use on infected wounds.
What are the precautions to be considered for Transparent Dressings?
-Stop any bleeding at the site before applying the dressing
-Do not stretch the dressing during application as tension can cause skin trauma 
-Make sure the skin is clean, free of soap residue and lotion and allowed to dry thoroughly before applying the dressing to prevent skin irritation and to ensure good adhesion
-The dressing may be used on an infected site, only when under the care of a health care professional
-Antimicrobial ointments containing polyethylene glycol may compromise the strength of the Transparent Film Dressings
-Transparent Dressings should not be re-sterilized by gamma, E-beam or steam methods