Choosing Wound Care Supplies for your Unique Needs
As debra of America's EB Nurse, I have the privilege of speaking to many people with questions about wound care. Wound care is a critical aspect of managing Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) effectively. EB is characterized by fragile skin prone to wounds and blisters. Wound care for someone with EB demands a personalized approach to choosing products. The right selection not only promotes healing but also has the potential to provide comfort, reduce pain, and lessen the risk of re-injury.
There are many different ways to dress wounds. What works great for one person may not work at all for someone else. It is important to find what works best for your wounds, and your lifestyle. EB-friendly dressings offer a variety of options; contact layers, thinner and thicker foam padding, different absorbencies, varying levels of adhesive properties, some are infused with healing agents or antimicrobials, dressings come in all shapes and sizes.
Instead of starting with choosing the dressing, I like to start with understanding the wound. Wounds are a little like the character Goldie Locks. They want everything "just right" to heal. What does your wound need to be just right? Is it draining and needs something to wick the moisture away? Is it too dry and needs a dressing that helps to maintain the moisture? Is the wound showing signs of infection and would benefit from an antimicrobial dressing? Is there too much pressure on the wound necessitating extra padding and protection? Depending on the level of adhesiveness your skin can tolerate, you can also think about the practical nature of keeping a dressing on. How easy is it to apply and wear that bandage in your daily life?
Once you have determined what your wound needs, you are much better prepared to select bandages with the qualities you are looking for.
Quick Reference Guide on EB-Friendly Dressings:
| Contact Layers | Contact layers are designed to provide a non-adherent surface directly over the wound bed, promoting healing without sticking to delicate skin or newly formed tissue. They are particularly useful for wounds that require minimal disturbance and protection. |
|---|---|
| Foam Dressings | Foam dressings provide insulation and absorbency, making them suitable for wounds with light to heavy drainage. They are particularly beneficial for wounds that require cushioning and protection. They can also be placed directly on the skin with ointment spread on first. |
| Hydrogels |
Hydrogel dressings maintain a moist wound environment, promoting re-epithelialization and wound healing. They are particularly beneficial for wounds that require hydration and moisture management. |
| Impregnated Gauze | Impregnated gauze dressings are infused with substances like Vaseline, Aquaphor, or Zinc Oxide to provide a non-stick covering for wounds. They are particularly useful for wounds that require additional moisture management and protection. |
| Specialty Absorbent | Specialty absorbent dressings are designed to wick away drainage while providing a non-shearing, non-adherent environment for wound healing. They are particularly useful for wounds that require effective absorption and protection. |
| Gauze Rolls and Retention | Rolled Gauze and Retainer net, tube dressings, and some specialty garments are bandages used to secure dressings and hold them in place. They are usually made with a lightweight breathable material with stretch to allow for movement. These dressings should be applied as the last step once all open wounds are covered with a non-adherent dressing. |
Key Considerations:
- Assess wound characteristics: moisture level, infection signs, pressure sensitivity.
- Choose dressing based on wound needs: moisture management, antimicrobial properties, padding.
- Consider practicality for daily wear.
- In a pharmacy or store? Look for packages that say non-adhesive or low-adhesive (depending on tolerance level)
It is often beneficial to speak to an expert when selecting a product to try. Your dermatologist is a great person to go to for advice. You can always reach out to me for EB education through our contact form here, phone line (212) 868-1573 x107 or email at nurse@debra.org. debra also offers a Wound Care Distribution Program that can send you product samples to try. There are great medical supply companies that can collaborate with you, your healthcare provider, and your insurance company to provide you with the products that will work for your skin.
Finding the perfect combination of bandages is a process. You may not get it "just right" on the first attempt. Sometimes it takes being brave enough to try new things and seeing what works. It is important to remember that what works in this season of life may not be the best thing for the next season. Developmental phases, activities of interest, weather, and health conditions change along with your bandage needs. Continue to be flexible and listen to the needs of your body and your wounds.
If you are struggling with a non-healing wound, I would always suggest seeing your dermatologist for an evaluation and customized treatment plan. If you need help finding a dermatologist, please refer to debra's EB Doctor Directory here.
Take Care,
Catherine Doernbrack, EB Nurse Educator at debra of America
