Upon inspection of the client’s wound, the nurse notes that it appears

Upon 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 assess-ment is:

1. Foam
2. Hydrogel
3. Hydrocolloid
4. Transparent film

ANSWER

ANS: 1
A foam dressing absorbs exudate and debris while maintaining a moist environment. Topical agents, such as antibiotic ointment, may also be used with a foam dressing. This would be the most appropriate type of dressing for this wound. A hydrogel dressing provides moisture to a clean granular wound. A hydrocolloid dressing interacts with the wound fluid to provide a moist environment. Transparent film protects from friction injury and may be left in place up to 7 days.