Hydrogel dressing is a commonly used wound dressing that can effectively absorb wound exudate, maintain wound wetness, and promote the growth of granulation and epidermis.

1. Hydrogel dressings are commonly used wound dressings in clinical practice, mainly composed of carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC) synthetic elastomers, which can absorb wound exudation, maintain wound wetness and sealing, and provide a good healing environment for the wound. They can be used for the prevention and treatment of phlebitis and superficial ulcer wounds.

2. Among various dressings, hydrocolloid dressings have average absorption capacity for exudate, so they can only be used for wounds with low or moderate exudate, and the wound must have completed debridement treatment, and the wound must be clean and free of carrion and dirt. In addition, hydrocolloid dressings can only be used for superficial wounds, and deep wounds cannot reach the interior, resulting in relatively poor effectiveness.

3. Hydrogel dressings are simple and convenient to use, without the need for frequent replacement. They are usually replaced every 3-5 days. At this time, due to the excessive absorption of exudate by the dressings, the viscosity decreases, and removal will not cause pain or damage. But if the use time is too short and the dressing is forcibly removed, it will damage the skin around the wound, especially the newly formed granulation tissue and delicate epidermis, which should be paid extra attention to.

4. After absorbing the exudate, the hydrocolloid dressing will change into gel, which will expand locally and appear white. Therefore, attention should be paid to the extent to which the dressing absorbs the exudate during use. When the whitening area is close to the edge of the dressing (such as 1 cm), it should be replaced in time.

5. When caring for chronic ulcer wounds and phlebitis, the hydrocolloid dressing should not be forcefully removed. One hand should press on one side of the dressing, and the other hand should stretch towards the opposite side while lifting the dressing and slowly tearing it off. Due to the dry and fragile skin of the elderly, the process of changing or removing dressings should be done with caution.

6. Special situations where hydrocolloid dressings cannot be used include anaerobic bacterial infection wounds, whole cortex injuries, scabbing wounds, deep wounds, diabetic feet, wounds that may continue to necrotize, and bleeding wounds. These situations can be treated with Shengji Gao, Fuyuan Gao, and gauze instead