For a long time, the issue of gauze sticking to wounds during dressing changes has been a concern for many. To address this, ointment gauze is one of the most commonly applied methods. So, what should you pay attention to when using paraffin gauze to prevent adhesion?
1. What is ointment gauze for wound dressing?
Wound dressing gauze is a product used to dress wounds at risk of or showing signs of localized infection. There are two types of wounds that typically require gauze dressing: chronic wounds (pressure ulcers, leg ulcers) and acute wounds (traumatic wounds, abrasions, surgical wounds, etc.).
However, when removing wound dressing gauze from a wound, it is common for the gauze to stick to the wound, causing pain. Ointment gauze is an optimal solution for this problem due to its composition, which includes non-adhesive fatty substances and breathable, flexible mesh gauze. This makes dressing changes easier, reduces damage to new tissue, and minimizes pain for the patient.
2. Important notes when using paraffin gauze for wound dressing to prevent adhesion
Using gauze for open wounds is essential to protect them from infection caused by exposure to the external environment. For ointment gauze to work effectively, care and caution are needed during the dressing process. Below are some important considerations:
2.1. Mesh gauze (UrgoTul) can stick to latex surgical gloves
Although ointment gauze does not stick to skin or wounds due to its fatty composition, mesh gauze can stick to latex surgical gloves. To avoid this, simply moisten the gloves with saline solution, making handling the gauze easier.
2.2. Using tamanu oil before dressing wounds
If ointment gauze is unavailable and regular gauze is used, soaking it in tamanu oil before dressing can prevent adhesion. Tamanu oil not only has excellent anti-infection properties and reduces adhesion during removal but also promotes faster wound healing with minimal scarring. Tamanu oil is inexpensive, widely available in pharmacies, and highly effective.
2.3. How to handle gauze sticking to wounds
If regular gauze or ointment gauze sticks to a wound, remain calm and avoid forcefully removing it. To address this, first, apply some saline solution to the gauze, allowing it to soften gradually for easier removal. The removal process should be slow and gentle to avoid damaging the wound. Forceful removal can tear newly formed tissue, delaying healing, and potentially causing bleeding or scarring. Saline solution is inexpensive and readily available at pharmacies.
2.4. Cleaning the wound
Before redressing, clean the wound thoroughly with procedures like disinfection and washing. This ensures the wound surface is sterilized, reducing the risk of infection when the gauze is reapplied.
2.5. Do not sterilize mesh gauze (UrgoTul)
Do not sterilize or disinfect mesh gauze by any method, as this could alter its composition and reduce its protective effectiveness for the wound.
2.6. For fistula wounds and deep wounds
In these cases, when using ointment gauze, leave part of the gauze visible to facilitate easier dressing changes later.
2.7. Use paraffin gauze for wound dressing under medical supervision
When using ointment gauze, monitor the wound closely. In case of any adverse changes, patients should immediately seek medical assistance.
2.8. Change dressings regularly
Dressings should typically be changed 2-4 times daily, depending on the clinical condition and type of wound. Mesh gauze (UrgoTul) can remain in place for up to 7 days, depending on the wound’s condition and treatment progress.
Using ointment gauze for wound dressing not only makes dressing changes easier but also protects wounds from external bacteria. For ointment gauze to work effectively in preventing adhesion, users must follow the correct usage instructions and the notes outlined above.
These guidelines aim to provide you with additional first-aid knowledge to promote faster wound healing and minimize the risk of infection.
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