PICO dressings should generally be removed and changed every 3-4 days, but a healthcare professional may extend this to up to 7 days if appropriate.
Factors Influencing PICO Dressing Removal
The timing of PICO dressing removal is not fixed and depends on several factors, necessitating close monitoring and adherence to wound management guidelines:
- Standard Wound Management Guidelines: Follow established best practices for wound care when determining dressing change frequency.
- Healthcare Professional Discretion: A doctor, nurse, or other qualified healthcare provider will assess the wound and patient to determine the optimal dressing change schedule.
- Dressing Saturation: The dressing should be changed if it becomes saturated with wound exudate. The PICO pump often features an orange "dressing full" indicator that will flash when it detects a full dressing or blocked filter.
- Signs of Infection: If there are signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, fever), the dressing should be changed immediately, and a healthcare professional should be consulted.
- Dressing Integrity: If the dressing becomes loose, damaged, or no longer adheres properly to the skin, it needs to be replaced.
- Patient Comfort: Patient comfort is also a consideration. If the dressing is causing discomfort, it should be evaluated.
What to do if the "Dressing Full" Indicator is Flashing
The orange "dressing full" indicator on the PICO pump signals an issue that requires attention. If the indicator is flashing, it signifies that the dressing is either full of exudate or that the filter is blocked. In this situation:
- Assess the Dressing: Visually inspect the dressing to determine if it is saturated.
- Check the Tubing: Ensure that the tubing connecting the dressing to the pump is not kinked or blocked.
- Change the Dressing: Replace the dressing with a new one following proper wound care protocols.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the "dressing full" indicator continues to flash after changing the dressing, contact a healthcare professional to investigate the underlying cause and ensure proper wound management.
In summary, PICO dressings should be changed regularly, typically every 3-4 days, or as indicated by a healthcare professional, wound assessment, or the "dressing full" indicator on the pump.
