What Are the Best Wound Dressings for Pressure Ulcers?
Bedsores are a potential side effect of conditions that makes it difficult to move.
This post was reviewed by our Director of Clinical Excellence and Oversight.
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are an unfortunate potential side effect of any condition that makes it difficult to move. Too much pressure on one part of the body for an extended time can result in a pressure ulcer. If not treated quickly, bedsores can lead to severe issues, including cellulitis, an infection of the skin and connected soft tissues. Prevention is possible. Read more about how to prevent bedsores in our Guide to Bedsores.
If you do develop a bedsore, you are not alone. Millions of people develop pressure ulcers each year, and there are many treatment options. Keep reading to learn about some of the dressing options your doctor may prescribe.
Dressing Options
There are many different types of wound dressings, but not all of them are right for the treatment of pressure ulcers. Your doctor will suggest the dressing that will be the best healing your bedsore; here are some of the options they may choose from according to the National Health Service:
Alginate Dressings
Description: A loose fleece dressing made of seaweed, can absorb 15 to 20 times their own weight.
Hydrocolloid Dressings
Description: Hydrocolloid is made for difficult to dress wounds. This highly adaptable dressing contains a gel-forming agent to aid in healing.
Foam Dressings
Description: A highly absorbent dressing than comes in adhesive and non-adhesive forms.
Semipermeable Film Dressings
Description: A thin and flexible dressing with an adhesive backing. Allows oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor in, but keeps bacteria out.
Hydrofiber Dressings
Description: Removes drainage and forms a cohesive gel activated by fluid levels. Available in sheet and in gauzes or non-woven sponges.
Which Wound Dressing Is Best for Your Pressure Ulcer?
Now that we’ve touched on some of the more common types of dressings used for pressure ulcers, you may be wondering which is the best for your particular situation. The answer will depend on multiple factors including where the pressure ulcer is located, how severe the bedsore is, and the degree of skin and tissue damage. Talk to your health care professional about any pressure wounds you notice on your body as soon as possible.
Let HCD Help
Once your doctor has prescribed the best kind of wound dressing for you, call the experts at Home Care Delivered. HCD has a wide selection of dressings, foams, gauze, tapes, and more for treating wounds. Plus, all HCD supplies can be delivered right to your door in discreet packaging. An HCD representative can assist with insurance and product questions, and the paperwork is all taken care of. Why wait? Enter your phone number in the bottom left of this screen to get the process started today.
Get Insurance-Covered Wound Supplies
Accurate Orders | We Handle the Paperwork
