Island dressings comprise an absorbent pad that’s fitted with an adhesive backing. Take for instance the large and complex surgical incisions post a surgical intervention – island dressing protects such wounds.
They outdo other bandages and dressings in absorbing the excess fluid from the wound bed.
Not only are they competent in maintaining a sterile environment but also provide a protective barrier to safeguard the injured part from further trauma.
Did you know that there’s a broad line of difference between dressings and bandages?
A bandage does not necessarily take place in the healing process of your wound, quite unlike the dressing (that directly contributes as well as speeds up the healing process). Bandages are more useful in securing the wound dressing in place.
Consequently, a dressing remains in direct contact with the wound; a bandage necessarily doesn’t. That is why, island bandages, are more aptly referred to as island dressings.
There are 2 more terms that we tend to use interchangeably, but strictly shouldn’t! They are ‘band-aids’ and ‘bandages’. Band-aids are a subset of bandages – they bear adhesives and are available in both the plastic form as well as the fabric type.
Island dressing benefits
Island dressing is meant for wounds with a light to moderate exudate. Its primary beneficial features are:
- A central gauze pad that is non-adherent
- No additional tapes are needed to secure it in place
- The adhesive border secures the bandage in place. It saves both time and workload of the caregiver.
Read more on Island dressing wounds…
Indications & contraindications of Island Bandages
Island bandages may be used for primary and secondary dressing purposes. Remember, they are used for light to moderate exudate. On the other hand, island bandages are not indicated for highly exudating wounds and/or in patients who are hypersensitive to the bandage itself or its ingredients!
Garner Supply is a US-based company providing durable medical products and healthcare essentials for home delivery. We also provide our valued customers with additional information on medical devices and how to use them efficiently to live their best lives.
