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Author: luke-electrician

Tube & Device Securement

Caring for a Nephrostomy Tube & Sensitive Skin

Nov 9, 2020 , , , by luke-electrician

A Nephrostomy Tube

Before we begin, let’s first discuss what a nephrostomy tube is and what it is for. A Nephrostomy tube is a catheter or a thin tube that is inserted through the skin at the back and into your kidneys. It is used to drain urine from the kidney directly into a storage bag that it attached usually to the patient’s leg. A patient can have two inserted (one for each kidney) nephrostomy tubes.

A person with a healthy kidney normally will process liquid and create urine. This then drains through the ureter into the bladder. However, in some cases when an obstructions such a kidney stone, infections, congenital malformation happens, the urine is not able to reach the bladder hence prevents it to be eliminated naturally. When this occurs, an interventional radiologist is sought to insert the catheter into the body by using image guidance. This procedure can be done with general anesthesia or with conscious sedation and usually takes less than an hour to be completed.

The Nephrostomy Tube is in situ usually only for a few days and weeks. For extreme cases, it is placed for months wherein it will require new tubes for changing.

Caring for Patients with Nephrostomy Tube & Dressing

Due to its area of placement (at the back), a patient will require assistance for it to be cleaned and maintained properly. The nurse/carer will specify a mark on the catheter tube wherein it should always have the same distance from the disc covering the site. If any movement is observed, consult your medical professional immediately.

The bag must be placed securely on the leg of the patient as a bent catheter can pose a problem. This is essential to be observed because it ensures the catheter isn’t pulled and the urine is able to flow continuously. 

There will be cases wherein blood appears in the urine after a procedure. Always make sure to inspect the colour of the urine frequently as well as foul smell or cloudy urine. If it occurs, seek professional help.

To prevent infection or irritation, make sure to always inspect the catheter and dressing. Change the dressing if it becomes loose, wet or soiled. 

Contact the doctor or nurse if the following occurs:

  • The catheter slips
  • The patient develops a fever or gets chills
  • The clamp around the disc loosens or opens
  • There is pain, swelling, or irritation around the catheter site
  • The tube becomes clogged 
  • The flow of urine is obstructed

Using HyTape to Secure Nephrostomy Catheter and Dressing

HyTape is an ideal choice to use to secure a nephrostomy catheter and also to waterproof the dressing. This is because Hytape is both thin and conforming to the skin which is excellent for securing tubes and devices. Due to its flexibility, it allows free movement and tissue shifts which reduces the risk of skin injuries. It also has zinc-oxide which is perfect for those with sensitive skin. Lastly, HyTape is waterproof hence allows the area to be cleaned with soap and water without compromising the dressing. 

Less changing of dressing equals to less irritation on the skin. This results in faster healing and a better quality of life.  

For more information about HyTape please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Medical Tape

Importance of Choosing the Right Medical Tape for Any Situation

Oct 12, 2020 , , by luke-electrician

A variety of factors are needed to be considered when choosing the right medical tape for a particular situation, fortunately, there are now various types of tapes available. Though there are situations where a tape is needed, this may not be suitable for all people. Factors such as skin’s sensitivity to adhesives, tape allergies, integrity and age of the skin need to be considered in choosing the quality of tape that will be used. It is also essential for those who will administer the wound dressings to determine the location of where the tape will be applied or placed. 

Some of the most typical types of medical tape include cloth, paper, silicone tape, vinyl, clear plastic, silk, Kinesiology tape, Nonwoven soft cloth, Paper/plastic hybrid, and Foam.

The reason why most people use waterproof tape is to keep moisture in or out. It helps lengthen the time a dressing, tube or device stays in place. The patient can have the freedom to bathe and shower allowing the surrounding area of the dressing to be cleaned. 

Some substrates and adhesives cause allergic reactions or contact dermatitis to patients, especially when they have sensitive skin. Some adhesives cause allergic reactions to people when it’s made from latex while others are allergic to glue. 

In addition, medical tapes can also cause inflammation to: 

  • Maceration
  • Re-aggravation from prior skin damage
  • Hair removal
  • Occlusion due to poor cleaning
  • Skin damage due to repeated removal and application

Reactions can prolong and even hinder the healing. Some of the signs and symptoms include redness, rashes, itchiness, blisters and cracking of the skin. 

Age must also be considered when choosing a medical tape for a wound or dressing as Infants and the elderly have thin and sensitive skin. When some tapes are removed, it can cause irritation and tearing.

Applying Medical Tape Properly

First, you should determine the appropriate tape you’ll need for the procedure. The patient must have knowledge on how to properly apply and remove the tape. Tapes adhere best on surfaces that are both clean and dry. It also works well when combined with a skin-prep which is liquid that creates a protective layer and reduces friction when the tape is removed on the skin. Though skin-preps are excellent with some adhesives, it might not be the same as others as it can cause adverse effects. Upon applying the tape, you should determine the tape’s elasticity and the area it will be placed. It is essential to make sure to apply enough tape on both the skin and dressing. At least half a inch of tape (1.5cm)  is recommended to be spread on the dressing and skin.

HyTape has a strong-hold but releases gently on the skin which health professionals and caregivers appreciate. HyTape is not only waterproof but also has zinc-oxide in its adhesive that can help soothe irritated skin. 

Medical Tape, Skin Care

How to Deal with Irritant Contact Dermatitis & Medical Adhesives

Oct 12, 2020 , , by luke-electrician

Adhesive tape is nearly always required when securing dressings, it is often needed for securing IV lines, holding dressings in place or protecting scars. Irritant Contact Dermatitis and allergies may present themselves as burning, redness, and in drastic cases blistering. This is usually painful for patients. It is important to be able to differentiate and administer the best treatment for patients who have adhesive sensitivities.

Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD)

ICD is a type of contact dermatitis, Irritant Contact Dermatitis happens when the skin is damaged or injured due to a direct reaction from friction, rubbing, or the surrounding environment. This also includes cold temperatures, long-term exposure to water, and chemicals such as alkalis, acids, etc. It can appear within minutes or hours after the reaction and can last from short to long periods of time. The skin’s reaction varies depending on their skin condition and how long it was exposed to the irritant. In addition, 80% of contact dermatitis is mostly irritant type and doesn’t comprise of allergic reactions. The reactions are often observed on sensitive skin of infants and the elderly, it mostly presents on the body parts with thin skin such as the face,  arms, and back of the hand. A lesser reaction can be observed in parts with thick skin which includes fingertips, palms, and soles of the feet.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD)

ACD is caused by an irritating substance to the skin, Allergic Contact Dermatitis is triggered by the response of the immune system hence causing the reaction during skin contact. Compared to Irritant contact dermatitis, it is less common in patients. A variety of substances can trigger Allergic Contact Dermatitis, it often appears on the skin as red, swelling and watery blisters. When broken, these blisters form crust and scales that when left untreated, can cause the skin to be leathery, cracked and darkened.  Most common allergens include plants like poison ivy and materials like nickel, latex, rubber and many more.

Procedure for Patients that Experiences Allergic or Contact Dermatitis

If the medical adhesive or dressing is causing a skin reaction to the patient, the first thing to do is to remove the bandage or dressing. In order to remove any residue from the adhesive,  It is essential to clean the area with water and mild soap. Make sure to leave it uncovered if possible. However, if it needs to be covered by a bandage, use sterile gauze and a latex-free, non-reactive tape. This is needed to prevent any further irritation on the skin. If problems on skin persist such as showing signs of a blister or spreading redness, make sure to contact a medical professional.  

Treatment and Prevention

One way to prevent contact dermatitis is to practice a good skincare routine. Making sure that your skin is not placed in the presence of any other stresses, this will strengthen your skin along when used in conjunction with a good skincare regime. This also increases the body’s natural defenses against allergens.

Make sure to read the ingredients that are present in any soap or body wash you use. Try to select products that are perfume and dye-free. Taking short, warm baths is also recommended to ensure you keep the skin’s integrity intact. After taking a bath or shower, gently dab off any excess moisture instead of wiping it off. Lastly apply a skin moisturizer or lotion that does not have any dyes, alcohol or perfumes. 

Drinking plenty of water is also important to keep your skin healthy inside and out. A balanced diet and eating healthy foods that are rich in omega-3, fruits and vegetables, and foods that have known anti-inflammatory properties. There are many resources online that can assist you to choose a diet plan for you.

Doing exercises regularly helps in increasing the blood flow in the body as well as oxygen and nutrients. Just make sure to wear proper sun protection when exercising outdoors especially when you have a scar on your body.  

Seeking advice from a medical professional is essential when a skin condition appears on your body. They will help monitor and provide you with the right medications to help you deal and treat any form of dermatitis.  For example, Dermatologists do patch testing on the skin to determine what substances the patient needs to avoid on their skins.

Though this may not be the best option for patients with bandages or wounds. 

Choosing the right kind of tape is a very important consideration for your skin. Properties such as being waterproof, gentle on the skin, sun protection is essential to consider as it helps in faster recovery of the wound and also allows you to have a more active lifestyle. Being a leader in the field of a patient with skin sensitivity, Hytape has all the characteristics needed for a patient’s skincare. HyTape is waterproof for long-term use even when soaked, contains zinc-oxide for soothing effect and relief on the skin, and holds firm but releases gently on the skin. The best thing is it also has UFP 50 that helps in sun protection for scars and wounds. It is perfect to use for patients with chronic wounds, scars, and ostomy. If you want further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Medical Tape

Hy-Tape: A Tape with Many Uses in Home Health

Oct 12, 2020 , , , by luke-electrician

Medical tape is very commonly needed and used almost every day by health practitioners who work in home health. From procedures such as wound dressing changes to securing medical equipment, the medical tape is integral. Though there are a variety of tapes with each having a special purpose when used, the most effective medical tape for home health care workers is a tape that can be used in many areas.

Hy-Tape is a home health care tape with a variety of purpose

Always consider the features you want in a medical tape before deciding and choosing what will be best. 

Hy-Tape is gentle on the skin yet also holds tightly

Often patients in a home health care setting are elderly or have a long-term physical ailment. The skin of these types of patients is more likely to be fragile and sensitive. They also usually have invasive medical devices such as NG-tubes, catheters, and G-tubes. Due to this reason, it is essential that you choose a tape that can hold these devices in place but also can be removed or released gently enough to not cause trauma on the skin. Hy-Tape is a great choice for this kind of job as it strongly adheres to the skin so that it can hold dressings, tubes and other medical devices in place while also being gentle and non-irritating even with long-term use or high body temperature. Compared to other medical tapes, Hy-Tape help lessen the risk of tears, trauma and skin burns  

Hy-Tape soothes the skin

Hy-Tape has a zinc-oxide based adhesive (this the same ingredient found in some sunscreens). The zinc-oxide helps soothe the patient’s skin, unlike other tapes that can cause irritations. One of the most common allergies seen in medical tapes is a latex-allergy, HyTape is latex-free. 

Hy-Tape is able to endure the ordeals of home health care use

A feature you must look for in a tape for home health care is being able to be protect against secretions, excretions, blood and sweat. Make sure to choose one that is occlusive and be able to withstand bodily fluids, water and mild detergent. This is because changing a dressing every time it gets wet etc not only costs time but also can irritate the skin. With Hy-Tape, the patient and healthcare worker can experience its waterproof attribute as it can be washed and cleaned without any problems. This feature also allows it for long-term wear. 

Hy-Tape can endure any types of job in home health

Home health care work is a busy and tough job hence why most medical practitioners have their hands full all the time. This is because it requires balancing patient contact and providing medical care. So, if you’re choosing a medical tape, select one that has pre-cut strips, patches and single rolls. 

Using single-rolls helps lessen the risk of cross-contamination of viruses and bacteria to patients. Hy-Tape has single rolls that, when used accordingly, not only lessens the risk of infection but also reduces waste. 

Hy-Tape’s patches are excellent to help cover large areas easily just by a single application. If you want to make a dressing occlusive, just simply place Hy-Tape to cover it. Hy-Tape also has pre-cut strips for easier application.  

Hy-Tape is excellent in virtually every home health care job

HyTape has got you covered if you need a medical tape for almost every job in-home health care. Hy-Tape conforms to the contours of the body and can be placed on any sizes and shapes of wounds. 

Some examples of where Hy-Tape is used is home health care, post-surgical care, neonatal care, ostomy securement, wound care & dressing, scar protection, infection control, endotracheal tubes & IV catheters, hydrocolloid dressings securement, and many more. 

If you’re planning to buy medical tape for home health care use, choose Hy-Tape

With a variety of medical tapes that are available on the market, it’s not necessary to buy just one as each has its purpose. However, for home health care workers, they have dozens of tasks to do and perform sometimes all at once. So, instead of buying one for a specific use, choose one that can help you with almost every job. Hy-Tape is waterproof, occlusive, washable, and latex-free. It also is gentle on the skin but holds firmly in place. Hy-Tape comes in a wide array of sizes and shapes. Because of its multi-purpose features, it is perfect for home health care use. 

Tube & Device Securement

Guide in Securing the Cannula in Infants and Children

Oct 11, 2020 , , , by luke-electrician

An infant or small child who needs oxygen treatment often uses a nasal cannula. If you have cared for one, you’d know how difficult it is to keep it in place. 

Most children tend to pull or even chew off their cannula especially when it isn’t secured. This is why you need to have something that is strong enough to hold their nasal cannula securely in its place. Though saying this, a child’s skin is sensitive and delicate hence you must always consider finding and using a mild solution to secure it.

Nasal Cannula

A nasal cannula is a device that is used to help deliver supplemental oxygen to a patient. It consists of a clear tube wherein it is split into two small tubes, called prongs which are placed in the nostrils on one end while the other end connects to a oxygen device such as an oxygen tank or oxygen concentrator. You can usually see an adult nasal cannula worn by patients at a hospital but they are also commonly used by infants in the neonatal intensive care units where premature newborns often have underdeveloped or “weak” lungs. These children can require oxygen treatment frequently and they often go home with an oxygen delivery system and nasal cannulae when they leave the hospital.

The Significance of Oxygen Therapy

Supplemental oxygen therapy is an essential part of the overall treatment program of a child who is prescribed oxygen by a physician. For children that have severe cases of lung or heart disease, acquiring extra oxygen can make a lot of difference for them from getting back at the hospital and living life at home. Therefore it is essential to maintain their oxygen flow as instructed by their physician. This can be a problem for parents and caregivers as ensuring the oxygen nasal cannula stay’s in place is their responsibility.

Security VS Safety

It’s really difficult to secure a nasal cannula on an infant or toddler’s face. For them, it automatically becomes something irritating, or something to pull by their moving hands. Using a soft gauze alone to secure it isn’t very effective as not only will it nott work but also won’t stay in place long enough. It is important for caregivers and parents to look for ways so that infants and children won’t be able to dislodge it with their hands due to its importance.

Though heavy straps and tapes can secure a cannula, these kinds of attachments can be very uncomfortable and sometimes even painful for children. They may not be able to adapt to wearing these bulky adhesives and devices.

In addition, most of the bindings and adhesives irritate the sensitive and delicate skin of newborn babies. They are more likely to develop a rash or even a fungal infection on the face when worn for a long time. If this occurs, it can be very painful and uncomfortable to treat them as the oxygen is still required whilst you are trying to promote an environment where the skin can heal.

HyTape Assures Security and Safety

For many who have tried HyTape, they have learned that it is an excellent choice for providing both security and safety in securing a nasal cannula to children. Also known simply as ‘Pink Tape’, HyTape has zinc oxide and latex-free adhesive that is soothing and gentle on delicate skin.

HyTape can withstand even the busiest tiny hands while at the same time being able to come off without damaging or tearing the skin. Babies and children can take their regular bath because HyTape is washable and waterproof. It also allows the dressing to become occlusive as it is able to endure secretions such as saliva, baby food, and vomiting.

HyTape can be used for a long time so you don’t have to worry about applying and reapplying the tape all the time. As a matter of fact, the Children’s Interstitial Lung Disease Foundation recommends HyTape for securing nasal cannulas as it is perfect for long term use.

How to Use HyTape in Securing Nasal Cannula For Infants and Children

First, make certain that a correct nasal cannula has been prescribed by a healthcare professional to your infant or child as just basing it on their age or weight may not ensure a comfortable fit.

The nasal tubes(prongs) must fit comfortably to their nostrils. It must not take up the whole space but just be enough to have a room for oxygen and air to pass through when the nasal cannula is placed. Put the nasal prongs in the infant’s nose and extend its tube behind their head. Then, lightly tighten both the tubes together so that it encircles their head comfortably. After it is in place, place a piece of HyTape on either side of their face. Check if it’s securely in place by gently pulling the tubes along towards the nose. If you need to place additional tape, determine areas that don’t have hair. 

If you’re caring for a child who uses supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula, please visit our website for further information.

Scar Protection

Caring for Thyroid Surgery Scars

Oct 11, 2020 by luke-electrician

Undergoing surgery for the removal of a thyroid tumour is not only a major procedure but also a life-saving one. This, sadly, often leaves a nasty and noticeable scar on the front of the neck where the thyroid gland is located. However, there are now a variety of ways to minimize the visibility of the scars caused by thyroid surgeries starting from the day of the procedure. 

Immediate Care for wound After Thyroid Surgery

After the surgery, ensure the head of your bed is up and try to stay relaxed and comfortable. Often the surgical incision is covered by gauze and medical tape. Depending on the surgery, a drainage tube may be present in the incision. Nurses will be the ones attending to your wound while you are still at the hospital. For your part, keeping your head still as much as possible will help lessen the pressure on the incision, this, in turn, eases the pain you may feel. 

First Day Care on Wound after Thyroid Surgery

In most cases after thyroid surgery, the doctor will advise the patient to spend at least one night in the hospital in order for them to monitor any sudden problems. After this, often patients are discharged from the hospital and you will care for your wound at home. Depending on the surgeon’s recommendation, you will be allowed to bathe and shower immediately so it is essential to know how to care for your incisions and bandages properly. Where possible, take a shower (don’t bathe) and ensure to keep the area with the wound as dry as possible. When drying, don’t rub the towel as this will irritate it. Dry it properly by gently dabbing the area.

One way to protect your incision or wound when showering is by using sterile gauze and HyTape to cover it. HyTape is perfect to use for surgical wounds as not only is it waterproof but also it can be removed easily on the skin. Just like a gauze when it comes to sizes, Hytape is available in precut strips for faster application.

Wound Care During the First Week of Thyroid Surgery

A week after your surgery, the physician will advise you to return to their clinic for a checkup. During your consultation, the doctor will give you a postsurgical evaluation. They will also remove the Steri-Strips and stitches that may still remain on your wound. You can continue to take a shower just make sure not to take a bath or submerge in water. Naturally, the Steri-Strips on your wound will fall off once the glue weakens. You don’t need to worry about it when this happens. Just don’t remove it on your own.

An important thing to keep in mind after a week of surgery is covering your wound or scar to protect it from the sun’s rays. This is because newly formed skin is delicate and very sensitive to  UV radiation. Make sure to minimize sun exposure and light on your wound as this will affect the appearance of your thyroid scar when it heals. In short, less sunlight exposure on your incision, the better your thyroid scar will look.  You can do this by using a gauze while framing it with HyTape. Ensure that you use enough of it to cover it securely from UV radiation, You are using the right amount if the skin cannot be seen through the gauze. Usually, using one to two squares is enough.

Though it is uncommon for it to occur, there is a risk of infection when you undergo surgery.  This can affect the healing of your wound and can exacerbate the scarring. This is why it is important to examine your wound for signs of infection regularly especially during the first week of your thyroid surgery. Some indications of infection include redness, warmth, swollen, and pus or fluid that leaks from the wound. Lastly, if you have a fever during the first week of operation, call your doctor immediately.

Care After First Year of Thyroid Surgery

Once the wound on your skin has closed, the surgeon will now remove the stitches. It is important to care for your thyroid surgery scar by protecting it from exposure to UV Radiation. Johns Hopkins experts recommend protecting it by using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30+. Ensuring you cover your scar will also help to improve the scars appearance when it heals. If you are going to spend time outdoors and in direct sunlight, you can effectively cover the incision with HyTape. This is because HyTape is able to block UV Radiation better than regular clothing. Just using a single strip of HyTape allows it to be protected from UV Rays.

What to Do If a Scar Remains?

Scars that are due from surgery undergo a healing process. Even months after a procedure, the incision or scars can still be firm and red while also having raised borders. Most patients dislike the appearance of raised borders around a scar but this actually aids the skin to heal. The raised area around the scars will eventually flatten after some time. 

You can also consider using silicone sheets or gels if you are not happy with the look of your thyroid surgery scars. It will cover and keep them from being visible. Make sure to avoid using creams with steroids as this will make the scar look a lot worse and can interfere with the healing. 

If all else fails and you are still unhappy with the way the look of scars turn out then you can seek advice from a plastic surgeon or dermatologist for help. Using steroid injections can treat Scars such as Hypertrophic and keloids while dermal fillers can help treat atrophic scars. Finally, various procedures such as chemical peels, medical lasers, or scar revision surgery can help treat dark flat scars

Tube & Device Securement

Quit Wasting Hydrocolloid Dressings

Oct 11, 2020 , , by luke-electrician

A Hydrocolloid dressing is a bioactive dressing that when exposed to wound exudate forms a gel. Typically, a hydrocolloid dressing is a flexible, polyurethane wafer, which consists of gelatin or carboxymethylcellulose that acts as an absorbent filter. It is resistant to both water and bacteria making it an advanced wound dressing. Hence, the advanced dressing creates a moist and insulated environment that prepares the wound to allow for optimal healing. The hydrocolloid dressing is required to only be changed every 3 to 7 days, therefore, this allows for less disruption to the wound. Infrequent changes minimize the pain associated with dressing changes and promote faster healing of the wound.

Although Hydrocolloid dressings may be used for various exudative wounds and are very versatile, they are expensive. By simply adding HyTape to a wound dressing routine, it can help in reducing waste, lessen the risk of skin maceration, save cost and most importantly – improve patient outcomes.

Choosing the Right Dressings for the Wound

Though versatile, hydrocolloids dressings can not be used on every wound. The absorbency of the dressing is limited. This is why it should be used for wounds with partial to full thickness and that produce low to moderate amounts of exudate. They are also recommended for pressure ulcers and are good with wounds that have slough and/or necrosis. There are also non-adherent hydrocolloid dressings in the market which can be used for certain types of superficial burns.

Using hydrocolloid dressings is not recommended to be used for wounds that excrete extensive amounts of exudate. It is also not advisable to use it on wounds that need to be frequently checked or are still infected. Though Hydrocolloid dressings can also be used for certain diabetic foot ulcers, It should be used with extreme caution, foot ischemia and infection are contraindications.

Using Hydrocolloid Dressings Effectively

Before choosing the size and shape of your hydrocolloid dressing, make sure to determine if your wound is suitable for it. It must be cleansed with a sterile saline solution and then dried off by using sterile gauze. To allow the dressing to conform better on the wound, warm it by using your clean gloved hands. Next, discard its backing and bend it down a little in the middle. Finally, carefully apply it to your wound by applying firm yet gentle pressure when you smooth it out from the centre until the edges. Due to the fact that the edges of hydrocolloid dressings often roll and curl, you can use HyTape to “frame” it.

Importance of Applying HyTape to Hydrocolloid Dressings

Since HyTape almost has the same properties as a hydrocolloid dressing, it has become a fitting choice to use along with it. Resembling a hydrocolloid dressing, HyTape is waterproof and washable hence it can be used by patients when taking a bath or shower and can be cleaned with water and soap. When it hits the patient’s body temperature, It also conforms to the skin therefore able to adapt to the wound’s shape no matter how unique it is. Though having a strong adhesive that can withstand even rigorous wound care, HyTape is gentle on the skin and is latex-free. It helps soothe the skin and can easily be removed when it needs to be replaced. 

The great thing also about HyTape is that it’s inexpensive compared to Hydrocolloid dressings. It can help extend the life of expensive ones hence minimizing waste. It is the perfect combination to use with Hydrocolloid dressings provided it is used

Stop using Hydrocolloid Dressings with Adhesive Borders

Hydrocolloid dressings are designed with mild adhesive to non-adhesive because they must be removed and pulled away easily from the affected area. The problem is, it can’t securely adhere to the wound without proper support. This is why some Hydrocolloid dressings have an adhesive border so that it covers the wound while being able to adhere to the skin. When used in clinical procedures, it costs more and causes more waste. Most importantly, Hydrocolloid dressings with an adhesive border are limited to fit the shape of a wound. Skin maceration can occur when it overlaps. This is why it is better to use a Hydrocolloid dressing and an appropriate tape (such as HyTape) to secure it to healthy skin.

Conclusion

Hydrocolloid dressing is perfect for sloughy and/or necrotic wounds and also one’s that excretes a moderate amount of exudate. These types of dressings encourage autolytic debridement by maintaining a moist, insulated environment. Though by design, it is not meant to be attached directly to a wound as its edges tend to roll. This is the reason why using a high-quality tape together with this expensive dressing is essential. HyTape is perfect and an ideal choice to use with Hydrocolloid dressing. It’s waterproof, can be removed easily, and skin-friendly. HyTape can be cut to the unique shape of the wound, hence reduces hydrocolloid dressing waste.

Medical Tape, Tube & Device Securement

Making Your Wound Dressing Waterproof For Swimming

Oct 11, 2020 , , , by luke-electrician

Going swimming when you have a wound dressing or bandage presents its challenges. By taking proper precautions you can ensure your dressing is covered and waterproofed. Protecting your wound from infection is of course the main aim, but people often forget the importance of protection from the sun’s UV rays.

Whenever you’re going for a swim, securing your dressing on your wound is very important. You can create a decent hold on the dressing by making a 0.5 to 1.5 inch (1.5 to 4cm) waterproof border around it. Factors like currents, salt-water waves, and body movements can and will loosen your wound’s dressing, having a strong adhesive is therefore essential.

Pool water, even if it’s treated with chlorine, can slow down the healing process of your wound and cause it to become irritated. There can be a bacterial load that is present in pools. A wound should remain dry especially when it is still in the early stages of healing. Even water from a tap, whilst is usually the cleanest source, has a risk for your wound to become infected and aggravated, especially when used in conjunction with soaps and shampoos.

Germs and microorganisms are present in all types of water which can enter the wound, thereby, causing an infection. Your skin that surrounds the wound softens when you soak it in water hence making the wound shrink and then swell. This can also slow down the healing process. Making your dressing waterproof is easy and inexpensive if you have the right products.

From sleeves to wraps, there are various products available on the market today. Choosing the right one can make all the difference. One of the best examples that has all the protective properties needed and a lot more is HyTape. It outshines and stands out from others due to its various features such as being waterproof, cost-effective and UPF 50+. HyTape is thin and flexible and adheres to all types of skins. It protects the wound dressing effectively by creating a barrier underneath, this allows it to be worn for long-term.

HyTape is also latex-free which lessens the risk of skin allergies and reactions, and has a zinc-oxide coating for soothing relief of the skin. What makes HyTape best for outdoor usage is its UPF 50+ feature to help protect your wound or scar from the sun’s UV rays. It is also easy to cover your wound or dressing as you don’t skin preparation is not required when applying. Hytape has a variety of sizes for your wounds with widths from .25” all the way up to 4”. For large covering, 4” and 5” adhesive patches are available. From surfers to parents, there are many testimonies of people who have used HyTape and had positive experiences.

Try Hytape now and share with us your experience today.

Scar Protection

Outdoor Protection for Scars

Oct 11, 2020 , , , , by luke-electrician

Scar tissue always needs extra attention as not only is it thin but also under stress. Scar tissue is also sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, especially particularly when the skin is in the process of healing. Due to this reason, it is essential to take proper precaution and be careful.

Slow healing can be attributable to sun exposure. Scar tissues are much more likely to develop sunburn when exposed due to their thin and sensitive surface. This is why it is imperative to protect it by wearing a sunscreen or using a cover that is UPF50+. Wearing your regular clothes if you’re going outdoors often isn’t enough to block the sun’s harsh UV rays, ensuring you purchase clothes that have 50+ UV protection should be an important consideration. If you can’t find clothes that are labelled UPF50+ then consider wearing clothes that are dark in colour, loose but heavy, and are tightly woven polyesters. Wearing clothes that are dark in colour, synthetic fabrics are much hotter and not breathable when worn making them uncomfortable. In addition, clothes lose their rate of UV protection when wet.

For most people that go outdoors frequently, one of the best and most comfortable ways they prefer to protect their skin is to put on sunscreen that has a high SPF rating. So, there is no reason for you not to be able to enjoy the sun when going outdoors. Research from Creighton University School of Medicine in Nebraska states that vitamins from the sun such as vitamin D and calcium on proper levels can lessen the risk of cancer by as much as 60 percent. Though avoiding the sun can be problematic, Just make sure to keep your scars from direct sunlight.

A great solution to help you cover your scars or healing skin is to use HyTape. Applying a layer of gauze and covering the area with a HyTape is important for wounds or relatively new scars as HyTape is UPF50+. It can also sometimes be placed directly onto the scars to cover it because HyTape has a very gentle release when removed. HyTape is a zinc oxide-based adhesive that helps soothe wounds and can hold firmly on the skin when it is applied to a dry and clean area. It also does not require any skin preparation when used. The best feature HyTape has that makes it perfect for any outdoor activity is it provides total adhesion when it hits body temperature. Unlike other acrylic-based adhesive tapes, HyTape won’t irritate the skin or break down when used over time.

Hytape has a variety of widths, pre-cut strips and patches available to cover a dressing completely or be cut to cover tough areas such as joints and mouth. We have lots of reviews and testimonials from users that have tried and tested our products. The product has been trusted for over 70 years now.

If you would like to try HyTape and learn more about it, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.