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OBJECTIVE

This study set out to investigate the pain control and absorptive properties of a new sheet hydrogel dressing (ActiFormCool, Activa).

METHOD

This was a simple evaluation involving 20 wounds. Compression was used when appropriate, although each patient receiving compression had used short-stretch bandages before entering the study.

RESULTS

Pain was reduced from an average of 8.65 to an average of 3.75, where 10 represents the worst pain possible and one represents no pain. Exudate reduction was assessed by the number of dressing changes required each week. The dressing-change rate reduced from an average of 2.8 times weekly to an average of 1.3 times weekly. Skin condition improved in all three cases in which the surrounding skin had been a problem before the study. Over a four-week period, two wounds healed, four healed by 90% and two by 80%, with an overall average healing rate of 46%.

CONCLUSION

ActiFormCool provides an optimum wound-healing environment, reduces pain and absorbs fluid, making it an excellent alternative to loose hydrogels.

Strange as it may seem to a newly qualified nurse, bandaging was once considered important enough to warrant training and instruction (Penn 2002). Bandaging skills continue to remain essential, both for retaining wound dressings for patients with sensitive skin who are intolerant to adhesive and as a method of supporting injured joints or treatment for leg ulcers (Finnie 2002). No less important is their use in the treatment of eczema and other skin problems (Abeck 1999). This article considers commonly used bandages and techniques highlighting characteristics, indications and contraindications for their use. The author believes that general nurses should actively participate in gaining current knowledge of the precise skills of bandaging selection and appliction, and know when to seek further advice from specialists like the tissue viability nurse or vascular nurse.