Transparent films and contact layers are thin dressings that play supporting roles: securing, protecting and keeping primary dressings from sticking.
Transparent films
- Thin, adhesive polyurethane sheets that let staff see the area underneath.
- Used to secure dressings, protect skin and cover IV sites.
- Available as sheets and as rolls you cut to size.
Contact layers
- Low-adherent meshes placed directly on the wound bed, under a secondary dressing.
- Silicone contact layers are gentle and often reusable across dressing changes per the instructions.
- Petrolatum-impregnated gauze and mesh are an economical alternative.
Non-adherent pads
Simple pads with a non-stick surface for low-exudate areas and post-procedure care.
Film dressings in everyday use
Beyond wound care, transparent films are widely used to cover IV sites and protect skin under devices, so they're often used across a clinic. Stock a small sheet size for IV sites and a larger sheet or roll for dressing securement.
Contact layers and wear time
Some silicone contact layers can stay in place across several secondary-dressing changes, per the manufacturer's instructions, which can reduce disruption to the wound bed and save product. Check the product's labeled wear time.
Questions to ask your supplier
- Is the film breathable, and what's its moisture vapor transmission rate?
- Are frame-delivery or easy-application formats available?
- Are contact layers silicone or petrolatum?
- What sizes come per box?
Ordering tips
Films are used widely, including for IV sites, so buy by the box. Contact layers are lower-volume; order to par.
Frequently asked questions
What are transparent films used for?
Securing dressings, protecting skin and covering IV sites, while staff can still see the area.
Silicone or petrolatum contact layer?
Silicone is gentle and can often stay through several changes. Petrolatum mesh is economical. Providers choose.
Do you carry film rolls?
Yes: sheets and rolls in several widths.
Can films go over IV sites?
Yes. Transparent films are commonly used to cover and secure IV sites so staff can see them.
Ready to price transparent films and contact layers?
Send us what you need and we'll reply with one quote, usually within a business day.
This guide is general product and purchasing information for licensed healthcare businesses. It isn't medical, legal or regulatory advice. Follow your medical director's protocols and the manufacturer's instructions.