SMTL Dressings Datacard

Description

Granuflex Extra Thin consists of a semipermeable polyurethane film, which is impermeable to exudate and micro-organisms, coated with a thin layer of an adhesive similar to that used on Granuflex. The moist conditions produced under the dressing promote epithelialisation without causing maceration. As Granuflex Extra Thin is waterproof, the patient may bath or shower with the dressing in position.

Indications

Because the absorbency of Granuflex Extra Thin is limited, it should be used in the treatment of lightly exuding wounds such as superficial skin injuries, pressure sores and post surgical sutured wounds. It may also be used prophylactically for the prevention of friction damage to fragile skin in high risk patients.

Contra-indications

Known sensitivity to Granuflex Extra Thin or its components

Method of use

An appropriately sized dressing is removed from its paper backing and lightly pressed into position over the wound. In order to ensure good adhesion to the surrounding skin, a minimum overlap of 2 cm from the margin of the wound should be allowed. Because Granuflex Extra Thin is adhesive, and will not allow exudate to pass through the backing, no additional dressings are required. After removal of Granuflex Extra Thin, the wound should be gently cleansed with sterile normal saline before the application of the next dressing.

Frequency of Change

The frequency of dressing changes will be governed by the state of the wound but on very lightly exuding superficial or sutured wounds, the dressing may be left in place for up to 7 days or until the wound is healed.

Warnings

Colonisation of chronic wounds is common and is not a contraindication to the use of Granuflex Extra Thin. Where systemic or local infection develops during the use of the dressing, appropriate adjunctive therapy should be initiated. The use of Granuflex Extra Thin may be continued but the progress of the wound should be monitored carefully and all treatment should be under medical supervision. The use of Granuflex Extra Thin in the presence of anaerobic infection is not recommended. Inappropriate use or too frequent dressing changes may result in skin irritation or stripping.

Presentation

Granuflex Extra Thin is presented individually wrapped in a peel pouch, sterilised by gamma irradiation.

Sizes

7.5 cm x 7.5 cm

10.0 cm x 10.0 cm

15.0 cm x 15.0 cm

5.0 cm x 10.0 cm

5.0 cm x 20.0 cm

Bibliography

1. Boulos PB, Developments in hydrocolloid dressings, European Hospital Pharmacy Workshop Series, Modern Wound Healing: The Pharmacist's Role. 1990, 1, (1), 22-23.2.

2. Decaillet JM, Clinical evaluation of Extra Thin HCD in hand surgery, European Hospital Pharmacy Workshop Series, Modern Wound Healing: The Pharmacist's Role . 1990, 1, (1), 24-26.3.

4. Martin A, Comparison of Granuflex Extra Thin and conventional dressings in the management of lacerations and minor operation wounds, The pharmacist and Woundcare, 1992, 107-110.

Revision Details

This datacard has been prepared from data provided by the manufacturer and/or from published literature.

URL: http://www.worldwidewounds.com/WMPRC/DataCards/HTML/granuflx.et.html
Last Modified: Thursday, 28-Mar-2002 10:21:37 GMT