Controlling Puncture Point Bleeding: The Alginate Hemostasis Protocol

One of the most common challenges in hemodialysis and PICC line maintenance is managing puncture point seepage (oozing).

Standard sterile gauze is the traditional solution, but it comes with a major flaw: it adheres to the clotting wound. When the gauze is removed, it often rips the newly formed clot, causing "secondary bleeding" and pain.

For modern clinical care, the Alginate Hemostasis Protocol is the superior standard. Here is the science behind why our Alginate Wound Dressing works and the step-by-step guide on how to use it effectively.

Why does alginate stop bleeding faster than cotton gauze? It’s not just absorption; it’s chemistry.

When the Ostup Medical Alginate Wound Dressing comes into contact with blood (which contains Sodium ions), a rapid ion exchange occurs:

1. Sodium ions (Na+) from the blood enter the dressing fibers.
2. Calcium ions (Ca{2+}) from the dressing are released into the wound.

This release of Calcium is critical. Calcium is a "Factor IV" in the body’s natural coagulation cascade. By flooding the wound site with calcium, the dressing actively accelerates the formation of a fibrin clot, reducing hemostasis time by up to 50% compared to standard compression.

Unlike gauze, which remains fibrous and dry, our Alginate Wound Dressing fibers absorb fluid and transform into a soft, hydrophilic gel.

This gel creates a moist seal over the puncture point. Most importantly, it does not stick to the wound. When it’s time to remove the dressing, it slides off painlessly, leaving the clot perfectly intact.

Follow this protocol for Dialysis Fistulas, PICC lines, or IV cannulation sites.

Step 1: Disinfect

Clean the puncture site with iodine or chlorhexidine according to your facility’s standard protocol. Ensure the surrounding skin is dry to allow the adhesive to stick.

Step 2: Fold & Apply

For small puncture points, you do not need a large sheet.

• Fold: Take a sterile Alginate Wound Dressing. You can use our standard flat pad size. Fold it once if needed to increase density.
• Place: Apply the dressing directly over the puncture point.

Step 3: Compression

Apply manual pressure (or use a tourniquet/strap) over the dressing.

• Time: Hold for 2–5 minutes (depending on the patient's coagulation status).
• Note: Because the alginate actively aids clotting, you will often find that less compression time is needed compared to gauze.

Step 4: Fixation

Once bleeding has slowed to a seep, cover the alginate pad with a secondary fixation layer if necessary, or simply inspect the site. The gel formation will indicate absorption is working.

The primary failure point in puncture care is re-injury upon removal. Traditional gauze rips the scab open.

Ostup Medical Alginate Wound Dressing transforms into a gel that creates a "non-adherent interface." This allows nurses to remove the dressing without disturbing the newly formed clot.

Ensuring you use high-purity, sterile alginate is critical for infection control. Ostup Medical manufactures wound care solutions in strict adherence to ISO 13485 and FDA standards.

• Hospitals & Clinics: Contact our Global Sales Team for bulk sterile samples.
• Patients & Home Care: You can order genuine Ostup Medical supplies in small quantities through our authorized partners.