Duoderm hydrocolloid dressings should be changed when the exudate seeps from the edges of the dressing or a white 'blister' appears under the dressing. Comfeel Plus hydrocolloid dressings should be changed when the dressing becomes transparent or there is any leakage. Limitations Hydrocolloids have a limited fluid handling capacity and therefore should not be used on highly exudating wounds. Care needs to be taken when applying hydrocolloids to wounds undergoing surface granulation, as they may result in hypergranulation. Due to the occlusive nature of hydrocolloid dressings they should not be used on clinically infected wounds.
Caution is required when removing hydrocolloid dressings from very fragile skin.
As the dressing material itself is adhesive, the edges of the dressing are prone to rolling and can leave residues of adhesive on clothing and bedding. This problem can be circumvented by placing a border of tape around the edges of the dressing or using the dressings with bevelled edges.