A multinational survey of the assessment of pain when removing dressings Richard White

Background: Skin damage caused by repeated application and removal of adhesive dressings can result in trauma to wounds and peri-wound skin. Aims: A multinational survey was undertaken to assess the impact of introducing advanced dressings with Safetac soft silicone adhesive technology on the intensity of wound-related trauma and pain. Methods: A survey of 3,034 patients treated with advanced dressings with traditional adhesives (traditional adhesive-based dressings) was conducted in 20 countries. Patients were asked to record their level of pain before, during and after dressing removal. Wound/peri-wound trauma was also recorded. Dressings with Safetac technology were then applied to their wounds, with the same assessment process repeated at the next dressing change. Results: When used in the place of some traditional adhesive-based dressings, dressings with Safetac technology demonstrably reduced traumatic injuries to wounds and peri-wound skin. They were also associated with significant reductions in the levels of wound-associated pain measured before, during and after dressing change. Conclusions: Advanced dressings with Safetac soft silicone adhesive technology significantly reduced pain during wear, at dressing removal, and after dressing change, when compared with advanced dressings with traditional adhesives. Conflict of interest: This survey was conducted by Molnlycke Health Care. Data analysis was undertaken by Intermetra Business and Market Research Group.