....
Composite dressings are multi-layered and combine physically distinct components into one single dressing to treat varying problems. They can be used as primary dressings - over sutures, skin tears, etc. - or as secondary dressings - with impregnated gauzes or wound fillers. Easy to apply and remove, these dressings are designed for low-to-moderate exudates. They are conformable and flexible enough to be used with most types of wounds. This cost-effective dressing stretches with the skin to promote extended wear time.
Each layer of the composite dressing has a distinct characteristic. When all layers are combined into one, they offer multiple functions in one dressing. Different layers provide varying functions such as absorption and adhesion. They act as a bacterial barrier and keep out other contaminants as well as maintain a moist environment around the wound to promote healing.
Generally, composite dressings have three layers. The top layer is breathable and has anti-bacterial qualities. The middle layer is usually composed of an absorbent material which wicks moisture off the wound bed. It enables autolytic debridement and prevents skin maceration. These dressings keep the wound bed moist for optimal healing. The bottom layer is usually semi-adherent or non-adherent and does not allow the dressing to stick to the wound bed. It allows moisture to leak through to the next layer.
These dressings are waterproof, moldable and conformable. They are water vapor permeable and can be used on infected wounds.
Some of these dressings are contraindicated for use on stage IV pressure ulcers. Not all composite dressings can be used on lightly exuding wounds because some of them may dry out the wound bed. Not recommended for use on fragile skin if adhesives are used.
Composite dressings are available as semi-adherent and non-adherent pads. The collection may include adhesive border of non-woven fabric tape of transparent film. These dressings can be used with topical medications.
Stratasorb composite island dressings have four layers that cover all stages of wound care. They are suitable for shallow and deep wounds, pressure injuries, partial- and full-thickness wounds, and incision sites.
The Smith & Nephew Covrsite Plus composite dressing is waterproof and manages acute or chronic wounds. It protects the wound from contamination by urines and feces.
Choose from a range of composite dressings for the treatment of wounds, including absorbent composite dressing, composite non-adherent dressing, adherent composite dressing, film composite dressing, island composite dressing, and more. There are several quality brands to buy from, such as TenderWet, COVRSITE, Alldress, Allevyn, Covaderm, Leukomed, OPSITE, etc.
Composite dressings combine varied components into a single product to address varying wound care needs and offer effective wound care management. They can be used both as primary and secondary dressings to provide a bacterial barrier and for absorption plus adhesion. Composite dressings can be used with topical medications.
Composite dressings can be used for light-to-heavy exuding wounds and on healthy granulation and necrotic tissue. They can be used on:
The bottom layer of a composite dressing is generally made of a semi or non-adherent material. This layer pushes moisture up into the next layer. It prevents the dressing from sticking to the granulating tissue of the wound bed and allows healing to continue.
The second or middle layer incorporates an absorptive material that wicks moisture away from the wound bed. This keeps the wound moist but does not allow skin maceration. It assists in inhibiting growth of bacteria.
The uppermost layer protects the wound from bacteria and allows air circulation. It prevents the moisture from leaking to the top layer thus reducing dressing change.