Wound care to 3rd degree burn w/ full thickness

Published May 12, 2007

434 Posts

Specializes in Transplant, homecare, hospice.

Hey there. Just picked up a homecare case last week. I have a pt that sustained a burn to his LLE March 21st this year. His wound is about 3cm x 2cm x 0.2cm. Small amount of serous drainage. Dry most of the time. No necosis. Wound is granulating. Purple induration 1/2 inch diameter around wound. Swellling to LLE +2 to +3, ie cellulitis. Agency suggested the use of Mesalt. I knew nothing of it until I research it. :uhoh21: YIKES! It's like Aquacel???? Says it should only be used with wounds that are moderately draining or have necrosis. I was UPSET when the agency told me that the nurse that filled in for me ONE day told them that the wound was draining moderately and was necrotic. I really became unglued and asked where she got her training from. I'm on the fence on this one. I'm working to get this pt to a wound care specialist.

What do you all use for 3rd degree burns with full thickness? I'm tempted to use wet to dry with NS until something better is ordered....??? What do you think???