The WOCN Society 40th Annual Conference (June 21-25th, 2008)


2232

Managing the complications of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) sites: a new absorbent silver barrier dressing* in clinical use

Kathy Leak, RN and Susan Johnson, RN. Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Tissue Viability Nurse, Doncaster Royal Infirmary,, Armthorpe Road, Doncaster, DN2 5LT, United Kingdom

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a safer and more effective method of supporting patients at risk of becoming nutritionally compromised. However, there are a number of potential complications – some of which are erythema, overgranulation, high levels of exudate, soreness, and odor from the insertion site. Infection is a common complication in these wounds, which although not life threatening, can require the patient having antimicrobial therapy. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is reported to be the most common organism associated with these infections, in hospitals where there is an endemic problem with this bacterium. Studies have demonstrated that prophylactic or concurrent antibiotics can reduce the incidence of infection, but this is to be avoided if possible because of the risks of resistance.

 

A new absorbent silver barrier dressing* was evaluated on a range of PEG sites to determine its effectiveness in managing these wound types. Patients with problematic PEG sites often present with overgranulation tissue around the stoma. The exudate levels are high resulting in maceration and erythema to the surrounding tissues. Patients often complain of “soreness”, “ burning”, and leakage of exudate which they find difficult to manage. The product performance characteristics of the dressing were evaluated on a total of 5 patients according to all of these problems that are often associated with PEG sites.

 

The case series demonstrates the effectiveness of the new dressing and illustrates how it can manage exudate and odor effectively, prevent excoriation and provide patient comfort.

 

*ALLEVYN Ag – Smith & Nephew Wound Management Inc., Largo, Fl.


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