Vented emergency wound dressings
A wound dressing provides a tenacious occlusive seal against the skin of a wearer, even in the presence of excessive blood or heavy perspiration. The preferred embodiment combines an adhesive backing layer with a hydrogel island providing superior hydrophilic gel adhesion. The product performs under extreme temperatures (i.e., 32-140° F.), and may be used to hold other dressings in place. The preferred embodiments are entirely translucent, and include a large pull-tab for easy removal. Two dressings may be packaged in a pliable re-sealable protective pouch, thereby forming a portable “kit.” Different “vented” embodiments are disclosed. A preferred structure includes a cover layer peripherally bonded to backing and hydrogel layers having a central aperture therethrough. The cover layer has one or more vent holes, and pressure is released through the central aperture and out the vent hole(s).
1. A wound dressing, comprising:
a backing layer having a periphery, a front surface with an adhesive layer adapted for patient contact and a back surface facing away from the patient;
a preformed hydrogel pad having a periphery attached to the front surface of the backing layer, the hydrogel pad and backing layer both further including aligned central apertures;
the periphery of the hydrogel pad being less than that of the backing layer such that a ring of the adhesive layer remains exposed around the hydrogel pad;
a cover peripherally bonded directly to the back surface of the backing layer so as to create an expandable pocket between the cover and the back surface of the backing layer;
wherein the cover includes at least one vent hole through the cover such that pressure from the wound temporarily expands the pocket, enabling liquids or gasses from the wound to be vented through the apertures, through the pocket, and out the at least one vent hole to atmosphere; and
after the pressure is relieved or with negative pressure, the cover falls back onto the backing layer, thereby eliminating the pocket between the cover and the back surface of the backing layer and maintaining a seal around the wound.
2. The wound dressing of claim 1 , wherein the backing layer with the hydrogel pad attached thereto are temporarily held against a larger release layer.
3. The wound dressing of claim 1 , wherein the backing layer is a polyethylene tape.
4. The wound dressing of claim 1 , further including an adhesive-free tab.
5. The wound dressing of claim 1 , further including a pouch to protect the dressing, thereby providing a portable kit.