How to use a pad for medical purposes?

Medical Uses of Pads

For patients requiring vaginal and vulvar symptom relief, skin protectants/sealants should be applied to the external folds of the vulva when using pads for leakage and/or discharge. 1

Types of Medical Pads and Their Applications

Vaginal and Vulvar Symptom Management

• Incontinence/Discharge Management:
  • Apply skin protectants/sealants to the external folds of the vulva when using pads for leakage or discharge 1
  • This helps prevent skin irritation, breakdown, and infection that can occur with prolonged moisture exposure

Defibrillation Pads

• Anterolateral Placement (standard position):

  • One pad below the right clavicle
  • Second pad in the left midaxillary line
  • This positioning effectively encompasses the heart between the two pads 2

• Special Considerations:

  • For patients with implanted devices (pacemakers/ICDs): Position pads at least 8 cm away from the device 2
  • For patients with large breasts: Place the left electrode pad lateral to or underneath the left breast, avoiding breast tissue 2
  • Ensure proper pad size (8-12 cm diameter) for optimal defibrillation effectiveness 2
  • Remove excessive chest hair, ensure dry skin, and remove medication patches from pad placement areas 2

Hemostatic Pads

For controlling bleeding during procedures or trauma:

• Collagen-based pads:

  • Trigger platelet aggregation when in contact with bleeding surfaces
  • Often combined with pro-coagulant substances like thrombin
  • Demonstrated positive hemostatic effects in multiple human studies 1

• Polysaccharide-based pads:

  • Available in various forms (pads, patches, bandages)
  • Effective for external use and splanchnic bleeding
  • Shown to achieve hemorrhage control in patients with severe hepatic and abdominal injuries, even with acidosis and coagulopathy 1

Best Practices for Pad Usage

For Vaginal/Vulvar Applications

1. Apply moisturizers to vaginal tissues 3-5 times weekly 1
2. Use skin protectants/sealants on external vulvar folds when using pads 1
3. Consider additional therapies for those not responding to conservative measures:
   • Low-dose vaginal estrogen (after risk-benefit discussion)
   • Lidocaine for persistent introital pain
   • Vaginal dilators for vaginismus/stenosis 1

For Defibrillation Pads

1. Ensure proper pad placement (anterolateral position as default)
2. Use self-adhesive defibrillation pads rather than paddles when possible
3. Avoid defibrillation in oxygen-enriched atmospheres to minimize fire risk 1
4. For pediatric patients, use the largest size pads that fit without touching each other 1

For Hemostatic Pads

1. Select appropriate pad type based on:
   • Surgical procedure requirements
   • Severity of bleeding
   • Patient's coagulation status
   • Cost considerations 1
2. Apply directly to bleeding surface with appropriate pressure
3. Consider contraindications when autotransfusion is used 1

Common Pitfalls and Caveats

• Communication Issues: Medical terminology around pad usage may be misunderstood by patients. Use clear, non-jargon language when providing instructions 3

• Defibrillation Hazards:

  • Fire risk exists when using defibrillator paddles in oxygen-enriched environments
  • Self-adhesive defibrillation pads are preferable to electrode pastes and gels 1
  • Ensure pads don't touch each other, especially in pediatric patients 1

• Contextual Factors: Consider patient-specific factors that may affect compliance with pad usage instructions, including:

  • Patient understanding of medical instructions
  • Social context and living conditions
  • Patient concerns about using medical devices 4

By following these guidelines for the appropriate selection and application of medical pads, healthcare providers can optimize patient outcomes while minimizing complications and discomfort.