Overview
Transparent films are dressings that are designed to treat superficial wounds with minimal to light drainage, such as blisters and abrasions. Transparent films are particularly useful because they allow a clinician to view a wound’s progress without having to remove the wound dressing.
Detailed Description
Most transparent films comprise polyurethane. Transparent films maintain a moist wound environment by trapping moisture at the wound surface. As this moisture accumulates it will usually form a tan opaque fluid that contains substances to support healing. Maintaining the moist wound environment is particularly important for the wound healing process. Transparent films may also assist in preventing bacterial contamination. Transparent films are not occlusive dressings—oxygen and water vapor can pass though the membrane of the transparent films.
Clinicians apply transparent films in a care facility setting or office. They are well suited to cover wounds in difficult areas of the body, such as elbows and heels, as well as flatter surfaces. Clinicians may use transparent films as a secondary dressing to other moist healing dressings.
Last updated: 19-May-04
