Description
3M Micropore Surgical Tape is an essential tool in medical care, renowned for its gentle and breathable design. Crafted by 3M, this hypoallergenic and latex-free tape is ideal for securing dressings, medical devices, IV lines, and non-critical tubing, particularly on sensitive or fragile skin.
Key Features
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Material: The tape features a paper or rayon-based backing, offering a soft, paper-like feel. Its porous nature allows for excellent breathability, maintaining skin integrity by permitting air and moisture vapor exchange.
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Adhesive: Equipped with a pressure-sensitive acrylate adhesive, it adheres well to various surfaces, including damp skin, plastic, and glass. The adhesive is designed to minimize irritation, making it suitable for pediatric and elderly patients.
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Color Options: Available in white, tan, blue, or skin-colored variants, providing discretion and versatility in different clinical settings.
Application and Removal
3M Micropore Surgical Tape is easy to tear by hand and conforms well to body contours, despite not being highly stretchable. It can be repositioned as needed and removes cleanly with minimal trauma, reducing the risk of Medical Adhesive-Related Skin Injury (MARSI).
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Application: Best results are achieved when applied to clean, dry skin. It should extend beyond the dressing by at least 0.5–1 inch onto the skin. Care should be taken not to wrap the tape entirely around a limb to avoid circulation issues.
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Removal: The tape is not waterproof and should be removed before showering or swimming. For gentle removal, peel back slowly in the direction of hair growth, using a medical-grade adhesive remover if necessary.
Common Uses
This versatile tape is suitable for:
- Securing wound dressings and bandages
- Secondary securement of IV lines and medical tubing
- Scar management by helping to flatten and soften scars
- General securement needs in hospitals, clinics, and homecare settings
Available Sizes and Packaging
3M Micropore Surgical Tape comes in various widths, including 12mm, 25mm, and larger sizes, with lengths ranging from 1.37m to 9.1m. It is available in convenient packaging options such as boxes and dispenser packs, catering to diverse medical needs.
Maintenance and Safety
The tape is suitable for use up to 48–72 hours, depending on the application and skin type. For specific wound care or securement needs, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. With its trusted performance, 3M Micropore Surgical Tape continues to be a reliable choice for both clinical and homecare applications.