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1. Prepare for your dressing change

2. Change the dressing

3. Remove the old dressing

4. Clean the wound

5. Apply the new dressing

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How often should I change my dressing?
  • Leave your dressing in place for as long as possible, or as long as your nurse recommends. Normally a dressing is changed between 1 and 3 times a week.

It will be necessary to change your dressing immediately in these situations:

  • If fluid starts to leak out of the edge of the dressing
  • If the dressing peels off
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What to look out for?

These conditions are signs that your wound might be infected:

  • It is more painful than normal
  • The amount of fluid increases significantly
  • The skin around your wound starts to swell and becomes red and fiery
  • If the smell from your wound gets worse
  • If there is excessive heat from/in your wound

Other conditions that can affect the wound healing is:

  • If you see more yellow or new black tissue developing

You should immediately contact your nurse if you see signs of infection

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What can help a wound to heal?

  • It is important that the wound is kept moist to support healing
  • Do not smoke
  • Eat a healthy and balanced diet
  • Exercise regularly within your own ability
  • Get a good night’s sleep

Your wound may take longer to heal for a number of reasons both related to your general health and the wound condition.

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What are specialised wound dressings designed to do?

  • Provide physical protection for your wound
  • Keep the wound moist and prevent the dressing from causing pain and damage at removal
  • Stay on your wound longer to support wound healing*
  • Absorb the fluid from your wound and prevent it getting onto your clothes
  • Be comfortable to wear

* Depending on the condition of the wound and surrounding skin, or as indicated by clinical practice.

Download self-care guide