best way to treat stage III pressure ulcer

KateRN1 · May 26, 2011

I would probably start with a silver-impregnated alginate, like Maxsorb Ag or Aquacel Ag to pack the wound, covered with waterproof cover dressing. Don't change more than every 3-5 days if it can be helped to allow the silver time to work. Once the slough is gone, a KCI Wound VAC may be a good option.

Also remember to treat the entire household by educating on pressure relief measures, nutrition measures, good hygiene practices, etc.

annaedRN, RN · May 26, 2011

I have had good success with Iodosorb gel and cover with foam and tegaderm. Also thinking wound VAC as well - sometimes hard to get a seal in that area...but doable. You can use VAC with slough but should use Santyl on wound bed first. Are they going to wound clinic? and like Kate said - pressure relief teaching is a must!!

ira1027 · May 27, 2011

Thanks a lot! I appreciate your response. No, they do not go to the wound clinic. And a loooot of education provided to family, unfortunately they don't always understand the importance of pressure relief, nutrition, etc. Thanks again.

KateRN1 · May 28, 2011

I thought Wound VAC can't be used with a large amount of slough in wound? It's been a while since I had an inservice from them and their guidance changes every so often.

berube · May 28, 2011

wound vac does require the wound bed to be less than 20% slough, i have had good luck with Mesalt,,it will debridge the slough and also absorb the drainage.

KateRN1 · May 29, 2011

What about eschar? I need to get ahold of that KCI rep.