PROBLEM A 60-year-old male presented with a painful spider bite to the left buttocks. Initial treatment included IV antibiotics for MRSA, sharp debridement, daily saline wet-to-dry dressings and iodine dressings, all with no improvement. After three weeks, patient was referred to Certified Wound Specialist (nurse) at surgical clinic. Wound 3cmx2cmx2cm deep.

RATIONALE Silver polymeric membrane dressings contain nanocrystalline silver particles which are effective against many microbes, including MRSA. They also contain glycerin, which soothes traumatized tissues and reduces the risk of peri-wound maceration. Polymeric membrane dressings enhance the wound healing process, providing comfort at all stages of healing.

METHODOLOGY The CWS recommended silver polymeric membrane dressings as a combined primary and secondary dressing. These dressings conformed to wound surfaces. Gauze placed on top of dressing, taped securely along edges. Dressings changed three times per week; 50-70% saturated at changes. Facility policy includes cleaning wounds with saline at all dressing changes to check for granulation tissue formation and for hypergranulation; policy was followed. Silver polymeric membrane dressings were used to complete wound closure.

RESULTS Wound size decreased and granulation tissue increased by the third dressing application. Use of polymeric membrane dressings dramatically reduced nursing time spent changing dressings. Dressings also reduced patient's pain. Deep wound healed in one month.

CONCLUSION The use of silver polymeric membrane dressings from initiation of treatment to complete wound closure was cost- and time-efficient and provided an excellent clinical outcome.

*PolyMem^® SIlver^TM Wound Dressings, Ferris Mfg. Corp., Burr Ridge, IL 60527