How do I apply Aquacel (hydrocolloid dressing) to a wound?

How to Apply Aquacel Hydrofiber Dressing

Clean the wound thoroughly with running tap water or sterile saline, select a dressing that extends 1-2 cm beyond wound edges, apply directly to the wound smoothing from center outward, and change when exudate leaks from edges or after up to 7 days. 1

Wound Preparation Before Application

• Remove all debris and foreign material from the wound before applying any dressing 1
• Clean with running tap water or sterile saline rather than antiseptic agents like povidone-iodine, which have not shown benefit over saline 1, 2
• Gently dry the surrounding skin while keeping the wound bed slightly moist to promote optimal healing 1

Selecting the Correct Dressing Size

• Choose a dressing size that extends at least 1-2 cm beyond all wound edges to ensure proper adhesion and create an effective seal 1
• Aquacel is specifically designed for moderate to heavily exuding wounds as it absorbs exudate directly into its hydrofibers 3, 4

Application Technique

• Apply the dressing directly over the clean wound surface 1
• Smooth from the center outward to prevent air bubbles and ensure complete contact with the wound bed 1
• The hydrofiber material will form a gel on contact with wound fluid, which locks exudate away and protects surrounding skin 3, 5

When to Change the Dressing

• The dressing can remain in place for up to 7 days depending on exudate amount 1
• Change the dressing when:
  • Fluid leaks from under the edges 1
  • Gel formation becomes visible through the dressing 1
  • The dressing begins to detach from the skin 1
• Aquacel can be easily removed during hydrotherapy or wound cleansing 6

Monitoring for Complications

• Inspect the wound at each dressing change for signs of infection including increased pain, redness extending beyond wound edges, foul odor, or increased exudate 1
• If infection develops, remove the dressing immediately, inspect the wound, and seek medical care 1
• Do not use Aquacel for heavily infected wounds or those with active bleeding 1

Important Caveats

• While Aquacel Ag (silver-containing version) provides antimicrobial properties, select dressings based primarily on exudate control needs rather than antimicrobial properties alone 1, 2
• Avoid occlusive dressings if signs of infection are present as they may promote bacterial growth 2
• For diabetic wounds, remember that dressing selection is only one component—pressure offloading and addressing underlying causes are equally important 1
• The silver-containing version (Aquacel Ag) has demonstrated broad antimicrobial activity without delaying wound healing in clinical studies 5