Evaluating the effectiveness of a dressing for use in malodorous, exuding wounds

Ostomy Wound Manage. 2002 May;48(5):22-8.

Abstract

Malodorous, exuding wounds can cause problems for patients in terms of discomfort and social isolation. A prospective, noncomparative, multicenter study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of an odor-controlling dressing in the management of patients with chronic and acute exuding, malodorous wounds. Forty-six patients with various malodorous wounds (mean duration prior to study entry of 231.6 weeks) participated in the study. The majority of the patients were > 65 years of age (mean 70.7 years). Wound characteristics, odor, and dressing exudate absorption were assessed at baseline and at every dressing change (total: 348 dressing changes). Overall assessment of the dressing's ability was rated as good or excellent for odor control (91% of patients), exudate management (82%), and overall comfort (86%). Patient and nurse perception of odor were similar. While appropriate treatment to address the cause of exudate and wound odor remains a priority, the results of this study suggest that discomfort and isolation may be reduced through the use of odor-control dressings.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Charcoal
  • Chronic Disease
  • Exudates and Transudates
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Occlusive Dressings*
  • Odorants
  • Prospective Studies
  • Wounds and Injuries / therapy*

Substances

  • Charcoal