Caring for a surgical wound is a crucial part of the recovery journey, whether you’re a patient, carer, or healthcare worker. The right dressing can make all the difference—helping to prevent infection, reduce pain, and support faster healing.

But with so many options on the market, from Primapore dressings to hydrocolloid, foam, and transparent film dressings, how do you know which one is best for your needs?

This article will walk you through what Primapore dressings are, how they work, and when they shine in post-surgical care. We’ll also compare them to other common dressing types and provide practical tips for choosing and changing dressings at home. Plus, we’ll introduce you to the Primapore and Primatape products available from Platinum Health Supply, so you can make confident, informed choices for wound care.

What Are Primapore Dressings?

Primapore dressings are a popular choice in Australian hospitals, clinics, and homes for managing surgical wounds and minor injuries. Developed by Smith & Nephew, Primapore is an adhesive, non-woven wound dressing designed to combine comfort, protection, and ease of use.

At their core, a Primapore dressing feature a soft, breathable non-woven fabric that conforms to the body’s contours. The centre of the dressing contains a highly absorbent pad, which is covered by a low-adherent layer to minimise sticking to the wound bed. This design helps manage wound exudate (fluid), keeps the wound clean, and reduces pain and trauma during dressing changes. The adhesive border is made with a low-allergy acrylic adhesive, making Primapore suitable for most skin types, including those with sensitivities.

Primapore dressings come in a range of sizes to suit everything from small cuts to large surgical incisions. Some variants are water-resistant, allowing for showering and maintaining hygiene without compromising the dressing’s integrity.

Key Features of Primapore Dressings:

• Soft, conformable non-woven fabric for comfort and flexibility
• Highly absorbent pad to manage exudate and reduce leakage
• Low-adherent wound contact layer for gentle removal
• Low-allergy acrylic adhesive for secure fixation and reduced skin irritation
• Breathable and water-resistant options available
• Rounded corners to reduce lifting and snagging
• Easy-to-use packaging for aseptic application

These features make Primapore a versatile, user-friendly option for post-surgical care and everyday wound management.

How Primapore Dressings Work

Primapore dressings are designed to support the body’s natural healing process while minimising complications. Here’s how they achieve this:

Exudate Management and Maceration Prevention

One of the biggest challenges in wound care is managing exudate—the fluid that leaks from wounds. Too much exudate can lead to leakage, soiling of clothes or bedding, and increased infection risk. On the other hand, too little moisture can slow healing and cause scabbing.

Primapore’s absorbent pad draws in excess fluid, keeping the wound bed moist but not wet. This helps prevent maceration (softening and breakdown of surrounding skin due to excess moisture) and maintains an optimal environment for healing.

Pain and Trauma Reduction

Changing dressings can be a source of anxiety and discomfort, especially if the dressing sticks to the wound. Primapore’s low-adherent contact layer ensures the pad doesn’t stick to the wound bed, so removal is smooth and less painful. This is particularly important for patients with fragile skin, children, or those who require frequent dressing changes.

Comfort, Flexibility, and Secure Fixation

Primapore dressings are soft and flexible, allowing them to move with the body—even over joints or curved areas. The low-allergy adhesive provides secure fixation without causing irritation or skin damage, making Primapore suitable for sensitive or elderly skin.

Breathability and Protection

The non-woven fabric is breathable, allowing moisture vapour to escape and reducing the risk of moisture build-up under the dressing. At the same time, Primapore acts as a barrier against bacteria and contaminants, helping to prevent infection.

Easy Application and Aseptic Technique

Primapore dressings are designed for quick, hygienic application. The slit protector paper and smart packaging support aseptic technique, reducing the risk of contamination during dressing changes—a key consideration in both clinical and home settings.

When Is Primapore Most Appropriate for Post-Surgical Care?

Primapore dressings are especially well-suited for:

• Closed surgical incisions (e.g., after sutures or staples)
• Minor cuts, abrasions, and lacerations
• Post-operative wounds with low to moderate exudate
• IV insertion sites
• Skin graft donor sites
• Wounds on joints or contoured areas

They are ideal when you need a dressing that:

• Absorbs moderate amounts of fluid without leaking
• Minimises pain and trauma during dressing changes
• Is gentle on sensitive or fragile skin
• Provides a secure, comfortable fit for active patients
• Supports undisturbed wound healing (can be left in place for several days if not soiled or saturated)

Primapore is not recommended for wounds with heavy exudate, infected wounds, or wounds requiring frequent inspection (in these cases, foam, alginate, or transparent film dressings may be more suitable).

Comparing Primapore to Other Common Post-Surgical Dressings

Choosing the right dressing depends on the wound’s characteristics, the patient’s needs, and the stage of healing. Let’s compare Primapore to other popular dressing types: hydrocolloid, foam, and transparent film dressings.

Primapore vs. Hydrocolloid Dressings

Hydrocolloid dressings are made from gel-forming agents that absorb exudate and create a moist, sealed environment over the wound. They are self-adhesive, waterproof, and can be left in place for several days.

Hydrocolloid dressings are excellent for wounds with low exudate and when a longer wear time is desired. However, they can cause maceration if the wound is too wet and may be difficult to remove from fragile skin. Primapore is gentler and easier to remove, making it a better choice for elderly or paediatric patients, or when frequent changes are needed.

Primapore vs. Foam Dressings

Foam dressings are made from polyurethane or silicone foam and are highly absorbent, making them ideal for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate.

Foam dressings are preferred for wounds with a lot of fluid, such as pressure ulcers or burns. They provide cushioning and protection, especially on bony areas or joints. Primapore is more suitable for surgical wounds with moderate exudate, where comfort and gentle removal are priorities.

Primapore vs. Transparent Film Dressings

Transparent film dressings are thin, adhesive membranes that are waterproof and allow visual monitoring of the wound.

Transparent film dressings are ideal for wounds with little or no exudate, such as IV sites or superficial surgical incisions. They allow for easy monitoring without removal but can cause trauma on removal, especially in elderly or paediatric patients. Primapore offers better absorbency and is gentler on sensitive skin.

Other Dressing Types: When to Use Them

Beyond Primapore, hydrocolloid, foam, and transparent film dressings, there are several other dressing types used in post-surgical and wound care:

• Gauze Dressings: Versatile and affordable, suitable for superficial wounds or as a secondary dressing. Can stick to the wound and cause trauma on removal; not ideal for wounds with fragile tissue or those requiring a moist environment.
• Alginate Dressings: Made from seaweed, highly absorbent, and ideal for wounds with heavy exudate or bleeding. Require a secondary dressing and are not suitable for dry wounds or those with minimal exudate.
• Hydrogel Dressings: Provide moisture to dry or necrotic wounds, promote autolytic debridement, and offer pain relief. Best for dry wounds, burns, or donor sites; not suitable for wounds with heavy exudate.
• Silicone Dressings: Feature a soft silicone adhesive that is gentle on fragile skin, making them ideal for elderly, paediatric, or anticoagulated patients. Used for skin tears, pressure ulcers, or wounds at risk of medical adhesive-related skin injury (MARSI).
• Silver Dressings: Contain antimicrobial silver, used for infected or high-risk wounds. Not for routine use in clean surgical wounds due to cost and risk of silver toxicity.

Practical Guidance: Choosing and Changing Dressings at Home

For carers and patients managing wounds at home, selecting and changing dressings can feel daunting. Here are some practical tips to make the process safer and more comfortable:

How to Choose the Right Dressing

• Assess the wound: Consider the size, depth, location, and amount of exudate. Is the wound dry, moist, or heavily draining?
• Consider the patient: Fragile skin, allergies, age, and activity level all influence dressing choice.
• Follow clinical advice: Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for dressing type and change frequency.
• Prioritise comfort and ease: Choose dressings that are easy to apply, gentle to remove, and comfortable to wear.

Changing a Primapore Dressing: Step-by-Step

• Prepare your supplies: Gather a new Primapore dressing, gloves, saline or wound cleanser, and clean tape if needed.
• Wash your hands: Use soap and water or hand sanitiser before and after the procedure.
• Remove the old dressing: Gently peel the dressing away from the skin, supporting the skin with your free hand. Remove in the direction of hair growth to minimise trauma.
• Clean the wound: Use saline or as directed by your healthcare provider. Pat dry the surrounding skin.
• Apply the new dressing: Remove the backing paper from the Primapore dressing, position the absorbent pad over the wound, and smooth the adhesive border onto the skin without stretching.
• Secure as needed: If extra fixation is required (e.g., over joints), use a suitable tape like Primatape.
• Dispose of used materials: Place old dressings and gloves in a plastic bag and seal before discarding.
• Wash your hands again.

Tips:

• Change the dressing if it becomes wet, soiled, or starts to lift at the edges.
• Avoid touching the wound or the inside of the dressing pad.
• If you notice increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your healthcare provider.

How Often Should You Change Primapore?

• For most post-surgical wounds, change Primapore every 1–4 days, or sooner if the dressing is wet or soiled.
• For wounds with low exudate, the dressing may be left in place for up to 4 days.
• Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, as some wounds may require more frequent changes.

Special Considerations: Fragile Skin, Paediatrics, Elderly, and Anticoagulated Patients

Certain groups require extra care when selecting and applying dressings:

Fragile or Elderly Skin

• Use dressings with low-allergy adhesives and gentle removal properties, like Primapore or silicone dressings.
• Avoid strong adhesives or frequent dressing changes, which can cause skin tears.
• Support the skin during removal and consider using a barrier wipe under the dressing for extra protection.

Paediatric Patients

• Choose soft, flexible dressings that minimise pain and anxiety during changes.
• Primapore’s gentle adhesive and low-adherent pad make it suitable for children, especially for minor surgical wounds or cuts.

Anticoagulated Patients

• Take care to avoid trauma during dressing changes, as bleeding risk is higher.
• Use non-adherent dressings and gentle adhesives.
• Monitor for signs of bleeding or haematoma under the dressing.

Application and Removal Technique for Primapore

Applying and removing Primapore correctly supports aseptic practice and minimises complications:

Application:

• Wash hands and don gloves.
• Clean and dry the wound and surrounding skin.
• Remove the Primapore dressing from its sterile packaging.
• Peel away the backing paper to expose the adhesive.
• Position the absorbent pad over the wound, ensuring full coverage.
• Smooth the adhesive border onto the skin without stretching.
• Press gently around the edges to secure.

Removal:

• Support the skin with one hand.
• Gently peel the dressing away in the direction of hair growth.
• Take extra care with elderly or fragile skin to avoid tears.

Duration of Wear and When to Change Dressings

The optimal wear time for Primapore and other dressings depends on the wound type, exudate level, and patient factors:

• Primapore: 1–4 days; change sooner if wet, soiled, or lifting at the edges.
• Hydrocolloid: Up to 7 days; change if saturated, leaking, or if signs of infection appear.
• Foam: Up to 7 days for moderate to heavy exudate; change if saturated or as directed.
• Transparent film: 1–4 days; change if not adhering, soiled, or if inspection is needed.

Signs that a dressing needs changing include visible leakage, increased pain, odour, or signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).

Potential Skin Reactions and Contraindications

While Primapore is designed to be gentle, some individuals may experience skin reactions to adhesives:

• Allergic contact dermatitis: Redness, itching, or rash at the site of the dressing. If this occurs, remove the dressing, wash the area, and consult a healthcare provider. Switch to a hypoallergenic or silicone-based dressing if needed.
• Skin tears: More common in elderly or fragile skin. Use gentle removal techniques and consider barrier wipes or silicone dressings.
• Contraindications: Do not use Primapore on infected wounds, wounds with heavy exudate, or if the patient has a known allergy to acrylic adhesives.

If you notice severe reactions, blisters, or signs of infection, seek medical advice promptly.

Primatape: Features, Uses, and When to Choose It

Primatape is a universal adhesive tape designed for secure fixation of wound dressings, tubes, and medical devices. Manufactured by Smith & Nephew, Primatape is highly breathable, conformable, and leaves no sticky residue upon removal.

Key Features:

• Made from cotton cloth with a zinc oxide adhesive
• Highly breathable, maintaining skin integrity
• Strong and consistent adhesion, even on joints or contoured areas
• Residue-free removal for easy, clean changes
• Writable surface for labelling
• Available in multiple widths (1.25cm and 2.5cm) and 5m length rolls

When to Use Primatape:

• Securing dressings on joints, elbows, knees, or other areas prone to movement
• Fixing tubes, catheters, or medical instruments
• Providing extra support for dressings that may lift at the edges
• When a strong, reliable tape is needed for active patients

Primatape is suitable for both medical and veterinary use and is a staple in first-aid kits and clinical settings.

Product Showcase: Primapore and Primatape from Platinum Health Supply

Platinum Health Supply offers a comprehensive range of Primapore and Primatape products to meet your post-surgical and wound care needs. Here’s a closer look at what’s available:

1. Primapore (35 x 10cm)

Order Here

Best for: Large surgical incisions, abdominal or orthopaedic wounds

Features: Extended size for full coverage, highly absorbent pad, low-allergy adhesive, flexible and conformable design

Why you’ll love it: Secure adhesion, comfort over joints or curved areas, easy application

2. Primapore Dressing (7.2 x 5cm)

Order Here

Best for: Small surgical sites, minor cuts, day surgeries, outpatient clinics

Features: Compact size, absorbent pad, gentle adhesive for sensitive skin, discreet and comfortable

Why you’ll love it: Perfect fit for small wounds, reliable protection, easy to use

3. Primapore Wound Dressing (8.3 x 6cm)

Order Here

Best for: Medium-sized wounds, minor to medium surgical incisions, clinics, aged care facilities

Features: Breathable, absorbent, secure, gentle removal for sensitive skin

Why you’ll love Primapore wound dressing: Ideal for wounds too big for small dressings but too small for large ones, maintains comfort and protection

All Primapore dressings from Platinum Health Supply are designed to make wound care easier for both patients and carers, with options for bulk orders and fast delivery across Australia.

4. Primatape

Order Here

Best for: Securing dressings, tubes, catheters, and instruments, especially on joints or contoured areas

Features: Highly breathable, strong zinc oxide adhesive, residue-free removal, conformable design, writable surface

Why you’ll love it: Reliable fixation, easy to tear by hand, suitable for active patients, available in multiple sizes

Evidence and Guidelines: Australian Clinical Guidance on Post-Surgical Dressing Selection

Australian clinical guidelines emphasise the importance of selecting dressings based on wound characteristics, patient factors, and the stage of healing. Key recommendations include:

• Moist wound healing: Dressings should maintain a moist environment to promote faster healing and reduce scarring.
• Protection and infection prevention: Dressings must act as a barrier against bacteria and contaminants.
• Minimising trauma: Choose dressings that are gentle on removal, especially for elderly or paediatric patients.
• Cost and availability: Consider the total cost of care, including dressing frequency and risk of complications.
• Patient involvement: Involve patients in dressing choices to maximise compliance and comfort.

Primapore dressings align well with these guidelines, offering a balance of absorbency, comfort, and ease of use for most post-surgical wounds.

Cost, Availability, and Procurement in Australia

Primapore and Primatape products are widely available across Australia through medical suppliers, pharmacies, and online retailers like Platinum Health Supply. Bulk purchasing options are available for healthcare facilities, and products are suitable for both clinical and home use.

• Cost-effectiveness: While Primapore dressings may have a higher upfront cost than basic gauze, their superior absorbency, comfort, and reduced need for frequent changes can lower overall care costs by reducing complications and staff workload.
• Availability: Platinum Health Supply offers fast shipping, bulk order discounts, and a range of sizes to suit different wound types and care settings.

Real-World Tips: Dressing for Joints, Long Incisions, Showering, and Activity

• Joints and Contoured Areas: Use flexible dressings like Primapore, and secure with Primatape if extra fixation is needed. Cut dressings to fit if necessary, and ensure the dressing covers at least 2–3cm beyond the wound edge for secure adhesion.
• Long Incisions: Choose extended-size Primapore dressings (e.g., 35 x 10cm) for full coverage. Overlap dressings if needed, and secure with tape for added support.
• Showering: Water-resistant Primapore dressings allow for gentle showering. Pat the area dry after showering and change the dressing if it becomes wet or starts to lift.
• Activity: Primapore’s soft, conformable design supports mobility. For active patients, use Primatape to reinforce dressings and prevent lifting during movement.

Let’s Make Wound Care Easier, Together

Primapore dressings offer a reliable, comfortable, and clinically effective solution for post-surgical wound care. Their unique combination of absorbency, gentle removal, and secure fixation makes them a top choice for patients, carers, and healthcare professionals alike.

While other dressing types—such as hydrocolloid, foam, and transparent film—have their place in wound management, Primapore stands out for its versatility, especially in managing closed surgical incisions, minor wounds, and situations where comfort and skin protection are paramount.

When selecting a dressing, always consider the wound’s characteristics, the patient’s needs, and clinical guidance. For most post-surgical wounds with low to moderate exudate, Primapore is an excellent choice. For wounds with heavy exudate, infection, or special requirements, consult your healthcare provider for the best alternative.

Explore the full range of Smith & Nephew Wound Careproducts at Platinum Health Supply to find the right fit for your wound care needs. With the right dressing and a little know-how, you can support healing, reduce complications, and make the recovery journey smoother for everyone involved.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised wound care recommendations.