3M Durapore Silk Cloth Hypoallergenic Tape

What to buy with 3M Durapore Hypoallergenic Tape

• 3M Cavilon Antifungal Cream
• 3M Wound Cleanser
• 3M Precise Disposable Scissors Style Skin Staple Remover

How to use 3M Durapore Tape?

3m Durapore Tape 1538 Prior Application Instructions

• 3M Durapore Surgical Tape should be applied without tension to clean, dry skin.
• A clipper may be used to remove hair, if necessary.
• To protect at-risk skin, 3M Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film may be applied and when thoroughly dry, tape may be applied over it.
• In general, do not encircle a limb completely with tape.
• If distention is anticipated, use a tape that stretches or a self-adherent wrap to secure the dressing or tubing.

3M Durapore Application:

A. General taping: Apply 3M Silk tape without tension, gently but firmly stroking the surface to maximize adhesion.  Tape should extend at least one-half inch beyond the dressing.  Durapore Surgical Tape should not be pulled or stretched when applied.  If swelling does occur, loosen and re-fasten or replace tape to relieve the tension.
B. When compression is needed: Place first section of tape without tension onto skin on one side of the dressing, gently pressing downward. With one hand, secure tape on one edge of the dressing while slightly stretching next section of tape over the dressing. Secure tape on opposite edge of the dressing. Press remaining tape onto skin without tension. Compression should come from the multiple layers of dressing material, not from excessive tension in the tape.  Skin distention under tape may result in blistering and should be relieved as soon as possible.

How to remove 3M Durapore Silk Tape?

Proper tape removal is critical in reducing the skin trauma: Loosen edges of 3M Durapore Surgical Tape. If necessary, press a small piece of tape onto a corner to start an edge of the tape. Stabilize the skin with one finger. Remove tape “low and slow” in direction of hair growth, keeping it close to skin surface and pull back over itself. Removing tape at an angle will pull the epidermis increasing risk of mechanical trauma. As tape is removed, continue supporting newly exposed skin.

What to Consider While Choosing A Tape For Tube Or Dressing Secural?

• The more critical the tubing/dressing, the higher the adhesion required.
• Strength of adhesion and backing may be more important than gentleness.
• Gentle tapes with higher adhesion may be used without increasing the risk of skin trauma if properly applied and removed.
• Some tapes are less gentle but are used for high initial adhesion, high long-term adhesion and high strength of backing.

• Heavy tubings require higher adhesion.
• Bulky dressings require high conformability and may require greater adhesion.
• Individual results may vary.

• The more active the patient, the higher the adhesion required. 

• The risk of skin damage may be reduced by using tapes that stretch with skin distention or movement.

• Tape adhesion generally builds over time. Breathable tapes are used for longer term wear. 

• History and current medical conditions should be studied e.g., allergies/ sensitivities to medical adhesives, medications, medical conditions

Specifications of 3M Durapore Surgical Tape

3M Durapore Tape Reviews