Abstract: The present invention is directed to the manufacture and use of absorptive wound dressings for treatment of burns and other wounds wherein the dressing has a reduced tendency to adhere to the wound and can act as a bacterial barrier. The wound dressing is comprised of a wound facing layer, an intermediate absorbent layer and an outer layer. The wound dressing of the present invention also has a topically effective medicament for treatment of burns and other wounds.

Abstract: A wound dressing which comprises an absorbent layer comprising an open cell foam of a hydrophilic polymer and a wound facing layer comprising either a conformable net of elastomer coated with adhesive on its wound facing surface or an adhesive layer, pattern spread in a conformable net-like configuration, the dressing optionally also having a conformable moisture vapour transmitting outer layer; and a process for making said dressing.

Abstract: A low adherency wound dressing which comprises a wound facing layer, an intermediate absorbent layer and an outer layer wherein the wound facing layer comprises a conformable net of elastomer, the intermediate absorbent layer comprises a conformable open cell foam of hydrophilic polymer, and the outer layer comprises a conformable microporous film; and a process for making said dressing.

Abstract: Moisture vapor transmitting wound dressings are described which comprise (a) a conformable backing layer which has an adhesive on one of its surfaces and in which at least one of the backing layer and adhesive layer is continuous so as to provide a barrier both to bacteria and to liquid water when the dressing is in place on a wound and (b) a low wound adherency absorbent pad positioned on the adhesive side of the backing layer. The area of the pad is less than that of the backing layer so that an adhesive margin remains exposed on two, or preferably four, sides of the pad so that the backing layer may be adhered to the skin surrounding the wound area. The wound dressings have a moisture vapor transmission rate of from 500 to 2000 grams/square meter/24 hours at 37.5.degree. C. and 100% to 10% relative humidity difference. Materials for use in the dressings and processes for manufacture of the dressings are also described.

Abstract: An absorbent, non-adherent wound dressing suitable for use in deep and cavernous wounds is described. The dressing comprises an absorbent material in the form of individual pieces of a conformable, resilient, absorbent hydrophilic foam retained within a porous bag formed from a perforated polymeric film. In a preferred form the foam is a hydrophilic polyurethane foam and the perforated polymeric film is a contoured net of a thermoplastic elastomeric polymer. A non-woven fabric may be additionally present between the perforated polymeric film and the pieces of foam. The dressings can absorb large volumes of wound exudate without adhering to the wound.

Abstract: A dressing suitable for application to lesions of the skin comprises a conformable apertured film. The film consists of two layers laminated together, the first layer which is the lesion contacting layer is formed from a material which swells in contact with water. The second layer does not swell or swells less than the first layer when in contact with water. When the first layer is placed in contact with a wet lesion the different swell characteristics causes the apertures to open allowing water to pass through the film from the wet surface to the top of the second layer. On a dry surface the apertures are closed. Preferably the apertures are in the form of slits. A composite dressing in which an absorbent for the fluid passing through the film is in contact with the second layer is also described.

Abstract: A decubitus ulcer, more commonly referred to by a layman as a bedsore, is brought on by continued pressure of a body area where the overlying skin in the area is poorly padded. The most vulnerable areas are the elbows, tailbone, hips, knees, ankles, heels and shoulder blades. The only evaluation of the existence of such an ulcer is solely by record keeping of "eyeball" evaluation.

Abstract: An inspection and recording device for ascertaining any surface abnormality on a pneumatic tire on a wheel on a dirigible vehicle and any deviation in the alignment of the wheel on which such tire is mounted with respect to the camber and toe-in of such wheel with respect to such vehicle and recording each such abnormality and each such misalignment.

Abstract: A simple form of testing device is provided to record an individual's walking ability under the conditions existing at the time of the test. The individual's walking ability may be open to question because of ill health occasioned by a stroke or because of a suspicion that the individual is under the influence of alcohol or a drug.

Abstract: Means are provided enabling one to record accurately bedside or in-room nursing care verification developed specifically for acute or extended care facilities with the sole intent of upgrading patient care. Patient confidentiality is assured while the value of the care provided is immediately discernible.

Abstract: An inspection and recording device for ascertaining surface abnormality on a pneumatic tire on a wheel on a dirigible vehicle and any deviation in the alignment of the wheel on which such tire is mounted with respect to the camber and toe-in of such wheel with respect to such vehicle and recording each such abnormality and each such misalignment.

Abstract: A simple form of testing device is provided to record an individual's walking ability under the conditions existing at the time of the test. The individual's walking ability may be open to question because of ill health occasioned by a stroke or because of a suspicion that the individual is under the influence of alcohol or a drug.

Abstract: A device is provided for recording written information dealing with the care of a patient. Each additional entry advances the previous entry and records it as a permanent record on the same tape roll. Each earlier entry is thereby hidden from view, thus preventing the alteration of records.