Table 3 Methods of wound cleansing
Cleansing method | Description | Purpose | Potential risks |
|---|---|---|---|
Compress | Gently pressing excess moisture from a moistened gauze/cloth applied to the wound and removing after wound contact to remove surface debris. The cycle can then be repeated | Astringent action (coagulate protein) to remove surface debris from the wound | • The compress can stick to the wound surface or there may be local pain from application or removal |
• Faulty technique can introduce infection | |||
Irrigation | Steady flow of solution across wound surface | Hydrate the wound | • More trauma if pressure too high |
Remove deeper debris | • Splash back | ||
Assist with visual exam | • High pressure may drive bacteria into deeper compartments | ||
Soaking | Immersion of wound in solution applying an over-hydrated cloth or gauze to the wound surface (no removal of excess moisture prior to application) | Hydrate the wound | • Disruption of moisture balance |
Allow for physical removal of debris | • Maceration of surrounding skin | ||
• Impaired healing with introduction of bacteria from immersion fluid |