Indications

Hydrocolloid dressings may be used as primary or secondary dressings to manage select pressure ulcers, partial- and full-thickness wounds, wounds with necrosis or slough, and wounds with light to moderate exudate.

Advantages

• Impermeable to bacteria and other contaminants
• Facilitate autolytic debridement
• Self-adherent and mold well
• Provide slight to moderate absorption
• Minimize skin trauma and disruption of healing
• Allow observation of the healing process, if transparent
• May be used under compression products (compression stockings, wraps, pumps, and Unna boots.

Disadvantages

• Not recommended for wounds with heavy exudate, sinus tracts, or infections; wounds surrounded by fragile skin; or wounds with exposed tendon or bone
• Can be opaque, making wound assessment difficult
• May be dislodged if the wound produces heavy exudate
• Provide an occlusive property that limits gas exchange between the wound and the environment
• May curl at edges
• May injure fragile skin on removal

Source: Hess CT. Clinical Guide: Wound Care. Fourth Edition. Springhouse, PA: Springhouse Corporation; 2002.