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Case Study/Series
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Evaluation of a silver mesh dressing* in the management of wounds where sub-infectious microbial colonization is suspected First Author: Marie Brown-Etris Authors: Marie Brown-Etris, RN, CWOCN A study was conducted to evaluate the clinical utility of a unique, new silver dressing. The material has the look and feel of conventional gauze but is non-woven. This design allows the clinician to cut the dressing without risk of shedding fibers into the wound. In laboratory studies, antimicrobial activity is demonstrated for up to seven days. Fifteen patients with wounds suspected of sub-infectious microbial colonization were studied. Four of these patients are presented in case studies. The silver mesh dressing was used as a primary dressing with a variety of secondary dressings. Wound healing progressed during the four week study as indicated by increasing granulation tissue, management of exudate, and reduction in surface area. The dressing was easy to apply and remove, did not require pre-activation, and was compatible with a variety of commercial wound cleansers, normal saline and other wound dressing materials. The dressing was conformable to the contours of the wound and body, and did not stain the wound or peri-wound skin. Because the dressing could be cut to size, and its familiar gauze-like appearance, the dressing was clinician friendly, cost-effective, and easy for staff and caregivers to understand and use. * 3Mª Tegadermª Ag Mesh Dressing |
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