Gauze, impregnated, water or normal saline, sterile, pad size more than 16 sq. in. but less than or equal to 48 sq. in., without adhesive border, each dressing
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Gauze, Impregnated with Water or Normal Saline, Sterile, Pad Size More than 16 sq. in. but Less Than or Equal to 48 sq. in., Without Adhesive Border (HCPCS Code: A6229)
Summary
This procedure involves the application of a sterile gauze pad that is impregnated with water or normal saline. The pad is used without an adhesive border to cover and treat wounds, providing a moist environment to support healing.
Purpose
This dressing is used to treat various types of wounds, ranging from minor cuts to more severe injuries, like surgical incisions or chronic ulcers. The goal is to keep the wound moist, reduce the risk of infection, and promote faster, more effective healing.
Indications
- Chronic or acute wounds
- Surgical incisions
- Ulcers (pressure, venous, arterial)
- Minor burns
- Lacerations
Patients who have wounds larger than 16 square inches but no larger than 48 square inches in size, and when there is a need to keep the wound moist without requiring an adhesive border, are appropriate candidates.
Preparation
There are generally no specific pre-procedure instructions for the patient. However, the healthcare provider may clean the wound area and, in some cases, perform a wound assessment to determine the appropriate treatment.
Procedure Description
- Clean and/or debride the wound if necessary.
- Open the sterile gauze pad packaging.
- Place the impregnated gauze directly on the wound.
- Secure the gauze in place using secondary dressings or tape, if needed.
Tools used include sterile gloves, wound cleaning supplies (saline or antiseptic solution), and the impregnated gauze pad itself.
No anesthesia or sedation is typically required for the application of this dressing.
Duration
The procedure usually takes only a few minutes to complete.
Setting
This procedure can be performed in various settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and at home under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Personnel
The procedure can be carried out by a range of healthcare professionals including:
- Nurses
- Physicians
- Wound care specialists
- Home health aides (under supervision)
Risks and Complications
- Skin irritation or allergic reaction to the dressing material
- Infection if the dressing is not changed regularly
- Maceration of surrounding healthy skin due to excessive moisture
Benefits
- Moist wound environment promotes faster healing
- Reduced pain at the wound site due to moist conditions
- Can help to reduce infection risks by maintaining a sterile barrier
Results and improvements in wound condition can be observed within days to weeks, depending on the wound's severity and the patient’s general health.
Recovery
- Regular change of dressing as advised by the healthcare provider
- Keep the area around the dressing clean and dry
- Follow-up appointments may be needed to monitor wound healing
Alternatives
- Adhesive-bound gauze dressings
- Hydrocolloid dressings
- Foam dressings
- Alginate dressings
Each alternative has its own pros and cons in terms of moisture retention, ease of use, cost, and suitability for different types and stages of wounds.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, the patient may feel a damp, cool sensation when the gauze is applied. Post-application, there might be a comforting feeling due to the moisture. Pain is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, if necessary. It is important the patient avoids disturbing the dressing to allow for optimal healing.