On inspection of the client's wound, the nurse notes that it appears infected and has a large amount of exudate. An appropriate dressing for the nurse to select based on the wound assessment is:

Question

A. Foam
B. Hydrogel
C. Hydrocolloid
D. Transparent film

Answer 1

A
A. Foam dressings absorb exudate and debris while maintaining a moist environment. Topical agents, such as antibiotic ointment, also may be used with foam dressings. This would be the most appropriate type of dressing for this wound.
B. A hydrogel dressing provides moisture to a clean granular wound. A hydrogel dressing would not be appropriate for a wound with a large amount of exudate.
C. A hydrocolloid dressing interacts with the wound fluid to provide a moist environment. Hydrocolloid dressings may stay in place until the seal is broken. It would not be appropriate for a wound with a large amount of exudate that appears infected.
D. Transparent film protects from friction injury and may be left in place up to 7 days. It would not be appropriate for a wound with a large amount of exudate that appears infected.