What are the instructions for using Medihoney (honey) topical paste on a wound?

Instructions for Using Medihoney Topical Paste on Wounds

Do not use Medihoney (honey) products for wound healing in diabetes-related foot ulcers as they have not been shown to improve healing outcomes. 1

General Application Guidelines

1. Wound Preparation:

   • Clean the wound thoroughly with clean water or saline solution 2
   • Gently irrigate to remove any debris or foreign material
   • Perform sharp debridement of necrotic tissue if indicated and if you have appropriate training 2

2. Application Technique:

   • Apply Medihoney directly to the wound bed
   • Cover the entire wound surface with a thin layer (approximately 3mm thick)
   • For deeper wounds, ensure the honey fills the wound cavity

3. Dressing:

   • Cover with a non-adherent dressing such as Mepitel or Telfa directly over the honey 2
   • Apply a secondary foam dressing to collect exudate 2
   • Secure with appropriate tape or bandage

4. Frequency of Changes:

   • Change dressings every 1-3 days depending on the amount of exudate
   • More frequent changes may be needed for heavily exuding wounds
   • Less frequent changes (every 2-3 days) for wounds with minimal exudate

Specific Considerations

For Different Wound Types:

• Superficial burns: Medihoney may help with pain relief and healing, though evidence suggests it should not be the primary treatment 3
• Pressure ulcers: May be beneficial as part of a comprehensive wound care approach 4
• Diabetic foot ulcers: Not recommended based on current guidelines 1

Precautions:

• Monitor for signs of allergic reaction or sensitivity
• Discontinue if increased pain, redness, or irritation occurs
• Not recommended for patients with known honey allergies
• Do not apply ice directly to wounds as it can cause tissue damage 1

Evidence-Based Considerations

While some research has shown promising results with Medihoney for certain wound types 4, current high-quality guidelines specifically recommend against using honey products for diabetic foot ulcers 1. The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) specifically states: "Do not use honey (or bee-related products) for the purpose of wound healing in diabetes-related foot ulcers" 1.

For general wound care, the American College of Physicians recommends selecting dressings primarily based on exudate control, comfort, and cost rather than specific additives like honey 2.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overuse: Applying too much product can lead to excessive moisture and maceration
• Inadequate cleaning: Failure to properly clean the wound before application reduces effectiveness
• Inappropriate wound selection: Not all wounds benefit from honey-based products
• Relying solely on honey: Medihoney should be part of a comprehensive wound care approach that includes addressing underlying causes and appropriate offloading for pressure-related wounds 2

Remember that wound healing requires a multifaceted approach including proper nutrition, infection control, and addressing underlying conditions that may impair healing.