When is hydrogel dressing indicated for wound care?

From the Guidelines

Hydrogel should be used on dry to moderately exuding wounds that need moisture to heal properly, as it facilitates autolysis and maintains a moist healing environment. According to the most recent guideline, dressings should be selected principally on the basis of exudate control, comfort, and cost 1. Hydrogels are suitable for dry and/or necrotic wounds, and they work by donating moisture to dry wounds, promoting autolytic debridement, reducing pain, and accelerating healing.

When using hydrogel, it is essential to apply it to clean, debrided wounds, such as pressure ulcers, partial-thickness burns, radiation burns, surgical wounds, and necrotic wounds that require rehydration. The gel should be applied directly to the wound bed in a layer approximately 1/4 inch thick, then covered with an appropriate secondary dressing like gauze or a transparent film. The dressing should be changed every 1-3 days, depending on the wound condition and manufacturer's instructions.

Some key points to consider when using hydrogel include:

• Ensuring the wound is cleaned with normal saline or as directed by a healthcare provider before application
• Keeping the surrounding skin dry to prevent maceration
• Avoiding the use of hydrogel on heavily exuding wounds or those with signs of infection
• Selecting dressings based on exudate control, comfort, and cost, as recommended by the guidelines 1.

It is also important to note that the use of topical antimicrobials is not recommended for treating most clinically uninfected wounds 1, and hydrogels should be used as part of a comprehensive wound care plan that prioritizes morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.

From the Research

When to Use Hydrogel on a Wound

Hydrogel dressings can be used on various types of wounds, including:

• Diabetic foot ulcers 2, 3
• Chronic wounds 4
• Skin wounds 5, 6
• Venous leg ulcers 3

Benefits of Hydrogel Dressings

The benefits of using hydrogel dressings include:

• Providing a moist environment for wound healing 6, 4
• Preventing dehydration of the tissue 5
• Reducing the risk of infections 5
• Allowing for additional drug delivery 6
• Being less painful or having a soothing effect 6

Effectiveness of Hydrogel Dressings

Studies have shown that hydrogel dressings are:

• More effective in healing diabetic foot ulcers than basic wound contact dressings 2, 3
• Equally efficacious as other synthetic active dressings and traditional wound dressings in treating venous leg ulcers 3
• Effective in promoting wound healing by providing a hospitable environment for cells to thrive 6

Considerations for Using Hydrogel Dressings

When considering the use of hydrogel dressings, it is important to:

• Choose the right type of hydrogel dressing for the specific wound type 6
• Consider the patient's individual needs and preferences 6
• Be aware of the potential benefits and limitations of hydrogel dressings 4