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Protocols for: Wound CleansingWound
healing is optimized and the potential for infection is decreased when all
necrotic tissue, exudate, and metabolic wastes are removed from the wound. The
process of cleansing a wound involves selecting both a wound-cleansing solution
and a mechanical means of delivering that solution to the wound. The benefits of
cleaning a wound must be weighed against the potential trauma to the wound bed
that cleansing would cause. Routine wound cleansing should be accompanied with a
minimum of chemical and mechanical trauma. 1.
Cleanse wounds initially and at each dressing change. 2.
Use minimal mechanical force when cleansing the ulcer with gauze, cloth,
or sponges. 3.
Avoid cleaning ulcer wounds with skin cleansers or antiseptic agents
(e.g., providone iodine, iodophor, sodium hydrochloride solution [Dakin’sÒ solution], hydrogen peroxide, acetic acid).
4.
Use Shur-Clens, Saf-Clens, Dual-Clens or normal saline for cleansing most
pressure ulcers. Wound Care Protocols, Inc. © 1992-2001. The contents of the Wound Care Protocols, Inc. protocols are guidelines only and are not intended to provide personal medical advice, which should be obtained from a qualified health professional. 
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