Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What dressing type may need to protect surrounding skin when used on shallow, dry wounds?

1. Transparent adhesive dressing

2. Gel

3. Hydrofiber

4. Calcium alginate

The correct answer is: Gel

The correct choice highlights the benefits of using gel dressings for shallow, dry wounds, especially regarding the protection of surrounding skin. Gel dressings are designed to provide moisture to dry wounds, preventing them from adhering to the wound bed while also maintaining a moist environment that is conducive to healing. This moisture helps to soften eschar or slough, which can be beneficial for wound healing. Additionally, gel dressings often create a barrier that protects the surrounding skin from maceration or injury, which is important when managing shallow wounds, particularly those that are dry. This protective mechanism helps to promote an optimal healing environment while minimizing potential damage to healthy tissue. While other dressing types can be appropriate in various contexts, they may not offer the same level of moisture retention and skin protection in this specific scenario. Transparent adhesive dressings, for example, may be used for shallow wounds but can adhere to dry tissue, risking damage to healthy skin during dressing changes. Hydrofiber and calcium alginate dressings are often chosen for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate and may not provide the necessary protective moisture in shallow, dry wounds.