Publication:

Early outcome of open wound dressing with tincture of benzoin compound versus closed wound dressing in clean wounds

Background Wound is disruption in the continuity of epithelial lining of skin or mucusa resulting from damage.  The Aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of open wound dressing with tincture of benzoin compound versus close wound dressing with gauze and plaster for post-surgery and other wounds less than 20 cm in length

Methods The study adopted a form of quasi-experimental approach where the effects of the different wound dressing protocols were assessed. Informed consent was obtained from the patients before enrolling into the study. The patients for this research work were randomly divided into two groups; one group was dressed with gauze and plasters after the routine cleaning with antiseptic, while the other group after same routine cleaning had tincture of Benzoin compound applied to the skin and left open. The acceptability and comfort of the dressing used was ascertained from the patient using questionnaire. Data was analysed and a p value less than or equal to <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results Open wound dressing with tincture of benzoin compound had better wound healing outcome, there was 65% wound healing requiring no further dressing, while closed wound dressing with gauze and plaster had 55%. Ninety-six percent prefer benzoin compound dressing while 74% prefer gauze and plaster. The 26% said if given another opportunity, they would not like to have gauze and plaster dressing compared to 4% that will use it.

Conclusions Open wound dressing with tincture of benzoin compound is effective and has a comparable advantage over close wound dressing.