How do I select the right foam dressing?

 

Foam dressings offer several benefits in wound care. They:

 

The chart below outlines factors you should consider when selecting a foam dressing.

Factors to consider

What to look for in the dressing

Exudate level

If you have a wound with medium to high exudate levels: Look for a dressing that can absorb and retain high amounts of exudate. Choosing a foam dressing that conforms to the wound bed can also help to minimise the risk of exudate pooling and other exudate-related problems.

If you have a wound with low exudate levels: Consider using a thin or light foam dressing.

If you’re using the foam dressing together with a compression bandage: Look for a dressing that can absorb exudate under pressure.

Condition of the wound and periwound (surrounding) skin

If your patient has fragile skin: Consider using a non-adhesive or silicone adhesive foam dressing. This will help protect the skin from further damage or trauma.

Wound depth

If you’re treating a deeper or cavity wound: Consider using an alginate or gelling fibre dressing to fill the cavity. You can then use a foam dressing as an absorptive secondary dressing.

Location on the body

Consider the wound’s location on the body: This will help determine which dressing size, shape and adhesive are appropriate for the wound. For example, some areas of the body may require a dressing with a stronger adhesive for the dressing to stay in place.

Wound infection or pain

If the wound is infected: Use a foam dressing with an antimicrobial, such as silver. If the wound is painful, you can choose a foam dressing containing ibuprofen.

Wear time

Consider:

  • how often you will need to change the dressing;
  • whether it is easy to apply/remove; and
  • whether or not the patient/relative will be changing the dressing.

TIP: Selecting a dressing with a longer wear time can result in considerable cost savings, both in terms of nursing time and materials.2

Remember:

Always start by conducting a holistic assessment of your patient and their wound.

Tips for choosing the right foam dressing

Look for a dressing that:

  • absorbs and retains an appropriate amount of exudate, also under pressure.3 This will minimise the risk of leakage and maceration;
  • conforms to the wound bed. This will minimise exudate pooling and maceration of wound edges and the periwound skin;3
  • adheres to the surrounding skin, while still being easy to remove.1 This will help prevent pain and damage to the skin surrounding the wound; and
  • is cost-effective and readily available.1

 

For further tips on how to select the right dressing, you can visit the following sections:

References
  1. NHS Clinical Review: Foam Dressings October 2018
  2. Managing wound exudate and promoting healing.
  3. World Union of Wound Healing Societies (WUWHS), Consensus Document. Wound exudate: effective assessment and management. Wounds International, 2019