From the Guidelines
To treat an open blister, gently cleanse the area with an antimicrobial solution, taking care not to rupture it, and then apply a nonadherent dressing to reduce bacterial superinfection and pain, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of pemphigus vulgaris 2017 [ 1 ]. When managing an open blister, it is essential to prioritize preventing infection and promoting healing. The guidelines suggest gently cleansing the blister with an antimicrobial solution and then applying a nonadherent dressing [ 1 ]. This approach helps to reduce the risk of bacterial superinfection and pain, which are critical considerations in the management of open blisters.
Some key points to consider when treating an open blister include:
- Gently cleansing the area with an antimicrobial solution to prevent infection [ 1 ]
- Applying a nonadherent dressing to reduce bacterial superinfection and pain [ 1 ]
- Avoiding activities that caused the blister until healing is complete to prevent recurrence
- Watching for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or red streaks extending from the blister, and seeking medical attention promptly if these occur
It is also important to note that the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of pemphigus vulgaris 2017 [ 1 ] provide the most recent and highest quality evidence for the management of open blisters, and should be prioritized in clinical practice. Other studies, such as the U.K. guidelines for the management of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis in adults 2016 [ 1 ], may provide additional guidance, but are not as directly relevant to the management of open blisters.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions adults and children 2 years of age and older: clean the affected area apply a small amount of this product (an amount equal to the surface area of the tip of a finger) on the area 1 to 3 times daily may be covered with a sterile bandage The treatment for an open blister is to:
- Clean the affected area
- Apply a small amount of bacitracin (TOP) on the area 1 to 3 times daily
- May be covered with a sterile bandage 2 Note: The drug label does not explicitly mention the treatment for an open blister, but it provides general instructions for applying the product to affected areas, which may include open blisters. However, it is essential to follow the specific instructions for the product and consult a doctor if necessary.
From the Research
Treatment for Open Blisters
- The treatment for open blisters involves draining the blister and maintaining the blister roof to reduce patient discomfort and the possibility of secondary infection 3.
- Hydrocolloid dressings can be used to treat deroofed blisters, providing pain relief and allowing patients to continue physical activity if necessary 3.
- There is no evidence that antibiotics influence blister healing 3, 4.
- A study comparing the effect of two different friction blister treatment regimens found that adhesive tape was more effective than wide area fixation dressing in terms of blister healing and patient satisfaction 5.
- Proper care of the blister site is essential to ward off infection, and properly fitted shoes, socks, and athletic equipment, together with the judicious use of lubricants, can help prevent the formation of friction blisters 6.
- Topical antibiotic ointments, such as triple antibiotic ointment, have been shown to be effective in promoting wound healing and eliminating bacterial contamination in blister wounds 7.
Prevention of Infection
- Proper care of the blister site, including keeping it clean and dry, can help prevent infection 3, 6.
- The use of antiseptics or antibiotics may not be necessary for all blister wounds, and their effectiveness in promoting wound healing is still unclear 4, 7.
- Hydrocolloid dressings can help protect the blister site and promote a moist environment that fosters wound healing 3.