Community setting survey evaluating AQUACEL dressings.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to collect and analyse real-life data to characterise the initial use of Hydrofiber Technology dressings for the management of exuding wounds in France.

METHOD

An online survey of nurses provided data from patients managed with two dressings-AQUACEL Extra or AQUACEL Ribbon-as the primary dressing. At baseline, sociodemographic data, relevant medical histories and wound characteristics were recorded. The status of the wounds was then examined on days seven and 14 of management, together with scores of both clinician and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

The survey included 1093 patients with a mean age of 65.9 years, comprising 53.3% women; 615 (56.3%) patients presented with acute wounds and 478 with hard-to-heal wounds. Wounds were reported to have healed or improved in 79.4% and 88.1% of the patients after 7 and 14 days, respectively. After 14 days, the wounds were smaller (p<0.001), and the percentage of sloughy wound bed tissue had decreased (p<0.001), while the percentage of granulation tissue and epithelialisation increased significantly (p=0.024 and p=0.047, respectively). Tolerance of the dressing was good, with low levels of pain reported, both while wearing the dressing and on removal. On day 14, nurses reported a high level of satisfaction, while 70% and 42.7% of patients with acute and hard-to-heal wounds, respectively, were 'very satisfied'.

CONCLUSION

The Hydrofiber Technology dressings aided wound healing when used in the management of a wide range of acute and hard-to-heal wounds in medical and surgical indications. User satisfaction was high from both healthcare professionals and patients.