Because some composite dressings cannot be used on infected wounds, it is important to check the manufacturer's instructions. Composite dressings with an adhesive border require intact skin around the wound to anchor the dressing. Use composite dressings cautiously if the patient is dehydrated or has fragile skin. Keep in mind that some insurers will not reimburse a facility or provider if a composite dressing is used as a secondary dressing with a hydrogel or impregnated gauze. This layer allows the dressing to be removed without disturbing new tissue growth.
Exudate passes through it into the next layer, which is absorptive.
If a topical agent is applied to the wound, such as an antibiotic ointment, the dressing's inner layer will not stick to the topical product. This absorptive layer is made of material other than an alginate, foam, hydrocolloid, or hydrogel. Besides protecting the intact skin from excessive moisture, the absorptive layer helps liquefy eschar and necrotic debris, facilitating autolytic debridement. This outer layer allows moisture vapor to pass from the wound to the air and keeps bacteria and particles out of the wound. It also helps maintain the moist healing environment.