What it means
A topical antimicrobial used on partial- and full-thickness burns to prevent infection. It is spread in a thin layer over the cleaned burn once or twice a day. It can cause a short-lived drop in white blood cells, and the silver can turn the skin gray.
For the nurse
Ask about a sulfa allergy first. Use sterile technique, give pain medicine before dressing changes, and remove the old cream before applying new. It is not used near term in pregnancy or in newborns under 2 months.
At a glance
| Drug class | topical antimicrobial (sulfonamide) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Silvadene, SSD |
| Also written | Silvadene, SSD cream |
Related terms
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.