Author(s) Karen A. Gibbs,, et al.

Journal Advances in Wound Care: Volume 1. Date of publication 2017 Oct 7;volume ():.

Abstract Background: Alginate and hydrofiber dressings are popular absorptive dressings indicated for wounds with moderate to high levels of exudate. While they are similar, there are some important differences between them. Alginate dressings are biodegradable, absorb up to 20 times their weight in wound fluid, and serve as hemostatic agents. Hydrofiber dressings absorb up to 30 times their weight and provide less risk of maceration because of their vertical fluid absorption properties. Provided adequate drainage, both dressings gel with absorption promoting a moist wound-healing environment, autolytic debridement, and atraumatic removal. The Problem: When making clinical decisions regarding dressing utilization, clinicians should refer to chemical makeup and specific dressing use guidelines because of variations between brands of dressings. Basic/Clinical Science Advances: Alginate and hydrofiber dressings may help with infection control by holding bacteria in absorbed wound fluid, thereby reducing overall bacterial load within the wound and minimizing airborne bacteria during dressing changes. Clinical Care Relevance: Alginate and hydrofiber combination dressings offer extended benefits, including increased absorption and antimicrobial factors, antiinflammatory and odor reduction properties, increased wear times, and reduced auxiliary supplies. Conclusion: With high variability between patients, dressings, and research designs, clinicians should carefully consider all aspects of published research and manufacturer's recommendations regarding specific dressings before applying evidence in the literature to actual clinical practice.

Source ID (e.g. PMID):