Science intersects with nursing: Exploring the synergy between scientific advancements and nursing practice
In the pursuit of creating innovative wound care solutions, the development of Manuka honey wound dressings was a significant milestone. This project required a woundcare specialist with an investigative mind, a good knowledge of wound healing, and a willingness to try new methods.
Peter Molan, associated with the University of Waikato, and Julie Betts, associated with Health Waikato, were two such specialists who played crucial roles in this development. Their expertise and insights were invaluable in shaping the direction of the project.
The ideal dressing was designed to have haemostatic properties to minimize wound bleeding, absorb wound ooze over a longer period, releasing honey into the wound, and not stick to the wound. Alginates, a type of dressing, exhibited properties that addressed these requirements exceptionally well.
The opinions of other woundcare specialists were also sought during the development process. Nurses expressed interest in using Manuka honey more extensively on patients, and their feedback was instrumental in understanding the desired characteristics for a commercial dressing.
The development process also involved stakeholders such as producers, health authorities, and regulatory bodies. This collaboration was necessary to ensure authenticity, quality, and the unique antimicrobial properties of Manuka honey were preserved and verified for consumer protection. The high demand and premium price of genuine Manuka honey, especially as traditional Maori uses and health claims increased its value, made it essential to prevent adulteration and false labeling.
A pilot trial provided valuable insights on the desired characteristics for a commercial dressing. The findings from this trial have laid the foundation for the development and production of Manuka honey wound dressings that are now making a difference in wound care.
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