How to Use Silvadene

Silvadene is a prescription medication used as an aid in the treatment of second- and third-degree burns. This soft, white cream kills the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria thus helping wounds to heal. Silvadene is easy to work with. It can be applied easily and removed easily with water. The active ingredient is silver sulfadiazine.

Things You'll Need

• Silvadene prescription Gentle cleanser Water Tongue blade or sterile glove Gauze wrap and dressing

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Instructions

• 1

  Purchase a 20- or 85-gram tube or a 50-gram jar of Silvadene from a drugstore. You will need a prescription from your physician to purchase Silvadene.

• 2

  Prevent contamination by preparing the wound. To prepare the wound cleanse it carefully with a gentle cleanser. Pat the area dry.

• 3

  Use a tongue blade to scoop Silvadene out of a jar or put on a sterile glove and squeeze Silvadene from a tube onto the fingertips of the glove.

• 4

  Using your fingertips in the glove or the tongue blade, coat the wound with the Silvadene. The area should have a layer of about 1/16 of an inch. If more Silvadene is needed, use a new tongue blade if you are using a jar. By using a new tongue blade you will not contaminate the product. If you are wearing a sterile glove, squeeze more Silvadene directly on to the tips of the glove. Silvadene should be applied once or twice a day according to your doctor's directions.

• 5

  Put a gauze dressing on the area that was treated. Wrap the gauze dressing with gauze wrap to hold it in place.