Is Intrasite Gel Applied Daily?
No, Intrasite gel (sodium carboxymethylcellulose hydrogel) is not typically applied daily—the frequency of application ranges from daily to once weekly depending on the wound condition, with most clinical scenarios requiring changes every 2-3 days rather than daily. 1
Application Frequency Guidelines
Initial Wound Care Phase (First Week)
- Daily dressing changes are recommended only during the first week after wound creation or surgical procedures to prevent infection and promote proper wound healing 2
- For fresh wounds, the wound site must be monitored daily for signs of bleeding, pain, erythema, induration, leakage, and inflammation 3
- During this initial phase, cleanse the wound at each dressing change with 0.9% sodium chloride solution, sterile water, or freshly boiled and cooled water 2
After Initial Healing (Beyond First Week)
- Reduce dressing changes to every 2-3 days rather than daily once the wound has properly healed 2
- For PEG tube sites specifically, glycerin hydrogel dressings applied the day after placement should be changed weekly during the first four weeks 3
- After stoma healing, dressings can be reduced to one or two times per week 3
Factors That Determine Change Frequency
When to Continue Daily Changes Beyond One Week
- Excessive wound exudate that saturates the dressing before the scheduled change requires more frequent changes 2
- Signs of infection (increased pain, erythema, purulent drainage, or fever) necessitate daily or more frequent monitoring 2
- Wounds with heavy exudate need dressings that absorb moisture and may require daily changes 3
When Less Frequent Changes Are Appropriate
- Dry or minimally exuding wounds can be changed less frequently, as hydrogels provide hydration rather than absorption 1
- Well-healed wounds with no drainage may only need changes every 3-7 days 2, 1
- The wound can be left exposed if completely healed with no drainage 2
Clinical Application Technique
- Apply the hydrogel directly to the wound bed, ensuring complete contact 1
- Cover with an appropriate secondary dressing (sterile, breathable dressing that does not shed fibers) to secure the hydrogel in place 2, 1
- Avoid occlusive dressings as they promote moisture and can lead to skin maceration 2
- Ensure complete drying of the wound area after cleansing to prevent maceration of surrounding tissue 2
Important Caveats
- Hydrogels should not be selected over sharp debridement for diabetic foot ulcers, as the evidence supporting hydrogels is of low quality with high risk of bias 1
- Hydrogels are not recommended as primary treatment for heavily exuding wounds as they may lead to maceration 1
- Hydrogels should be avoided in infected wounds as the moist environment may promote bacterial growth 1
- Monitor for signs of infection or maceration of surrounding skin during use 1