- Application Techniques:
For Wounds That Are Not Deep
- The dressing should overlap 1 cm (1/2 inch) onto the intact skin surrounding the wound. The dressing will shrink as it absorbs wound fluid and gels.
For Deep Wounds
- When using the dressing ribbon in deep wounds, leave at least 2.5cm (1") outside the wound for easy removal. Only fill the dressing into deep wounds up to 80% (almost to the top), as the dressing will swell as it absorbs the fluid.
Apply a Cover Dressing on Top
- Place the dressing on the wound and cover with a cover dressing that keeps the wound moist. See individual package inserts for instructions regarding usage and cover dressing removal. If covering with gauze, change when wound fluid strikes through the outer layer.
Remove
- While the dressing may have to be changed every 2 to 3 days in the beginning, it can be left on the wound for up to 7 days when the wound is almost closed. The dressing should be changed when it is saturated with wound fluid or if the cover dressing’s edges are bunching, rolling up, or leaking. All wounds should be inspected frequently. Remove the dressing when medically indicated (wound fluid comes out of the dressing, there is too much bleeding, or you have increased pain). If residual dressing is left in the wound, irrigate with wound cleanser. If the dressing dries and is hard to remove, moisten with sterile saline or sterile water until it lifts easily. It may take several minutes for it to gel. - Contraindications:
- Aquacel Ag should not be used on patients with a known sensitivity to this dressing or any of its components
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