3M Micropore Surgical Tape - Tan

Features of 3M Micropore Surgical Tape

• Gentle to the skin yet adheres well
• Tan blends with the skin for a less noticeable appearance
• Reliably secures dressings and devices to skin
• General purpose and breathable surgical tapes
• Micropore Tan Paper Tape holds well on damp skin for secure placement
• Comfortable in bandaged areas
• Economical single-use rolls
• Not made with natural rubber latex
• Hypoallergenic

Micropore Tape Contents:

• Hypoallergenic, pressure-sensitive, acrylate adhesive
• Non-woven rayon

Micropore Tape Uses:

• Securing small to medium dressings, especially on damp skin
• Taping fragile, at-risk skin
• When repeated taping is needed
• Securing lightweight tubing
• Securing ostomy appliances

3M Micropore Paper Tape - Tips For Trouble Free Taping
3M Micropore Paper Tape - Solutions For Dressing And Device Securement
 

What to buy with 3M Micropore Surgical Tape

• 3M Cavilon No-Rinse Skin Cleanser
• 3M Wound Cleanser
• 3M Coban Self-Adherent Wrap - Sterile

How to use 3M Micropore Paper Tape?

Application Recommendations:

• 3M Micropore Paper 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 surgical cloth tape.
• If distention is anticipated, use a 3m micropore tape that stretches or a self-adherent wrap to secure the dressing or tubing.

3M Paper Tape Application:

A. General taping: Apply the 3M Micropore Tan Paper Tape without tension, gently but firmly stroking the surface to maximize adhesion.  Tape should extend at least one-half inch beyond the dressing.  Tape should not be pulled or stretched when applied.  If swelling does occur, loosen and re-fasten or replace 3m micropore tape to relieve the tension.
B. When compression is needed: Place the first section of 3M Micropore Surgical Tape without tension onto the skin on one side of the dressing, gently pressing downward. With one hand, secure 3m micropore surgical tape on one edge of the dressing while slightly stretching the next section of tape over the dressing. Secure tape on the opposite edge of the dressing. Press the remaining waterproof surgical tape onto the 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.

3M Paper Tape Removal:

Proper tape removal is critical in reducing the skin trauma: Loosen edges of 3M Micropore Tan Paper 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 the direction of hair growth, keeping it close to the skin surface and pulling it back over itself. Removing Micropore Medical Tape at an angle will pull the epidermis increasing risk of mechanical trauma. As the tape is removed, continue supporting newly exposed skin.

Sterilization:

The following method was tested and proven reliable for sterilization and stable adhesion performance, with ethylene oxide residuals well within U.S. FDA guidelines:

1. Strips of 3M Micropore Paper Tape arranged over a suitable release surface, e.g. glass, stainless steel, silicone-treated paper
2. Tape sealed in appropriate sterilization pouch or wrapper
3. EtO sterilized warm cycle 55 degrees C (130-145 degrees F), minimum 1 hour exposure time (50% RH - 600 mg/liter, or equivalent)
4. Warm cycle aeration (temperature not to exceed 55 degrees C) for a minimum 20-hour cycle before use

Storage And Shelf Life:

• It is recommended that 3M Medical Tapes be stored under normal conditions within the temperature range of 59 - 86 degrees F (15 - 30 degrees C)
• 3M Micropore Medical Tape has a recommended shelf life of five years under these conditions.

Considerations While Choosing A Tape For Tube Or Dressing Secural:

I. Degree of importance of tube or dressing:

• 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.

II. Surface characteristics:

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

III. Activity level of the patient:

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

IV.Potential for skin surface distention or movement:

• The risk of skin damage may be reduced by using 3m micropore surgical tape that stretches with skin distention or movement. 

V. Anticipated wear time:

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

VI. History and current medical conditions:

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

3M Micropore Paper Tape - FAQ