When to use Acticoat Post-Op Antimicrobial Dressing?
- Used in light to moderately exuding partial and full thickness wounds
- Decubitus ulcers
- Diabetic ulcers
- Surgical wounds
- 1st and 2nd degree burns
- Donor sites
- May be used over debrided and partial thickness wounds
What to buy with Smith & Nephew Wound Dressing?
How to use Antimicrobial Silver Surgical Dressing?
Preparing the Surgical Dressing -Where required, wound cleansing should be performed according to local clinical protocol using sterile water only. Choose a dressing where the pad is larger than the wound. Remove it from the pack using an aseptic technique. The dressing should not be moistened prior to use as it is indicated for use on wounds where there is some exudate present.
Step 1 - Remove the first release paper. Place the silver layer in intimate contact with the wound bed. ensuring the entire surface is covered
Step 2 - Remove the second release paper and smooth the dressing down trying to avoid ridging of the film
Step 3 - Remove the top printed carrier marked "2". To remove the dressing, lift one corner and slowly stretch the film in a motion that is parallel to the skin
Precautions to take -- For external use only
- Not compatible with oil-base products such as petrolatum
- May not be compatible with topical antimicrobials
- Do not use it with saline
- Not compatible with oxidizing agents (like EUSOL) as these can break down the absorbent polyurethane component of the dressing
- Avoid contact with electrodes or conductive gels during electronic measurements like EEG and ECG
- Not intended to provide treatment for infected wounds
- May be used on infected wounds which are being managed in accordance with institutional clinical protocols for infection abatement as an adjunct to the standard treatment regimen to provide a barrier to bacterial infection
- As with all inappropriate use or too frequent dressing changes, particularly on patients with fragile skin, can result in skin stripping. If reddening or sensitization occur, discontinue use
- Should only be used in premature infants (<3 weeks gestation) when clinical benefit outweighs any potential patient risks
Note:- The dressing should be changed at least every 7 days, but will require earlier changing if a strike through of exudate occurs
- The dressing may adhere if used on lightly exuding wounds. If the dressing is not easily removed moisten or soak to assist removal and avoid disruption of the wound
- ACTICOAT Post-Op may cause transient discoloration of the surrounding skin
What are the Contraindications of Acticoat Dressing?
- Do not use on patients with a known sensitivity to silver
- Do not use on patients during MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) examination
- Remove the dressing prior to commencing radiation therapy. A new dressing can be applied following treatment
For more details about Acticoat Post-Op, please view
Acticoat Post-Op Antimicrobial Silver Dressing FAQ