Use of Hocl Wound Cleanser and Hocl Hydrogel to Treat Complicated Inpatient Wounds

Introduction: Treating wounds in inpatients with complicated histories, such as dementia, obesity, and end-of-life health status, presents substantial and costly challenges. Cost-effective treatment options that are easy to apply and provide patient relief should be considered. This study reports the findings of the author’s experience with HOCl products in the long-term care setting.

Methods: Four patients were treated with the proprietary stable hypochlorous acid (HOCl) wound cleanser and HOCl hydrogel. The HOCl wound cleanser was used to soak the wounds prior to sharp debridement if needed. The HOCl hydrogel is a proprietary spray formulation that was easy to apply. A secondary absorbent dressing was then applied.

Results: All four patients reported reduction in pain and discomfort.

Discussion: Four patients presented challenging cases. The results demonstrate positive outcomes, where previous treatments (including enzymatic debridement) did not. The HOCl treatment was quick to apply and effectively reduced the patients’ pain, improved their overall comfort, and diminished odor. Research has shown that HOCl decreases the bacterial load and disrupts the polysaccharide/protein matrix of wound pathogen biofilms. It is an inexpensive, easy-to-use, painless, and effective treatment option in the management of a wide range of wounds. HOCl wound cleanser and hydrogel are easy to apply and should be considered as a treatment option, particularly in patients who are experiencing pain, in end-of-life situations, are uncooperative due to dementia/psychosis, or have wounds complicated by biofilm.

Conclusion: The use of a simple-to-apply treatment regimen consisting of HOCl wound cleanser and hydrogel appeared to have positive outcomes. Three of the inpatient cases presented healed completely; one patient died. Secondary outcomes included reduction in patient pain and staff time due to fewer dressing changes and improved quality of life for patient. Further studies are needed to validate these findings.