Performance and ease of use evaluation of a new surgical post-operative foam island dressing in 14 patients undergoing elective gynaecological surgery

AimThe aim of this evaluation was to investigate ease of use and clinical performance of a new post-operative foam island dressing in female patients undergoing elective gynaecological surgery. Women undergoing surgery have genuine concerns regarding the risk of a hospital acquired infection.MethodologyThe new post-operative dressing was evaluated on 14 patients undergoing elective gynaecological surgery during two weeks in March 2011. Evaluators rated packaging and dressing ease of use, wear time, shower proof ability, skin blistering and ease of removal. Patients rated comfort of the dressing during wear time and removal.ResultsNurses and Midwives rated blister prevention 100% (good), shower proof capabilities 86% (good) and ease of removal 79% (good). Patients rated comfort during wear time, skin integrity, and the importance of bathing (shower proof). No wound infections, peri wound maceration or adverse events were recorded.ConclusionEnsuring best patient outcomes and meeting individual needs remains the cornerstone of nursing practice. Reducing the risk of surgical site infections (SSI) remains a focus for NHS Trust throughout the UK particularly as Gynaelogical procedures require mandatory surveillance by the Health Protection Agency 1(The importance of patient comfort and ability to tend to hygiene needs is fundamental). The evaluated dressing has a flexible island pad allowing further tensile stretch and conformability when in situ. This was demonstrated in this study by both clinicians and patients in blister prevention, conformability, and patient comfort outcomes of this evaluation.