Description
A hydrocolloid dressing is a wafer type of dressing that contains gel-forming agents in an adhesive compound laminated onto a flexible, water-resistant outer layer. Some formulations contain an alginate to increase absorption capabilities. The wafers are self-adhering and available with or without an adhesive border and in various thicknesses and precut shapes for such body areas as the sacrum, elbows, and heels.

Advantages

• Impermeable to bacteria and other contaminants
• Self-adherent and mold well (don’t adhere to the wound, only to the intact skin around the wound)
• May be used under venous compression products
• Easy to apply
• Minimally disrupt healing (the dressing can be worn for several days before it needs to be changed. See “Frequency of dressing changes” for more information.)