Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Which dressing should be used for shallow, wet wounds?

1. Amorphous gel

2. Nonwoven gauze

3. Moisture-retentive dressing

4. Transparent adhesive dressing

The correct answer is: Nonwoven gauze

The best dressing for shallow, wet wounds is a moisture-retentive dressing. This type of dressing is specifically designed to manage exudate while maintaining an optimal moist environment for the healing process. It effectively absorbs excess fluid, which helps to keep the wound bed moist without drying it out, thus preventing the formation of a scab and promoting faster healing. Moisture-retentive dressings can include hydrocolloids, hydrogels, and foam dressings, which are ideal for many types of wounds that exudate. They also provide a barrier to bacteria and can be left on for several days, reducing the frequency of dressing changes and allowing for continual assessment of the wound. The other options, such as amorphous gel, although beneficial for maintaining moisture, may not provide sufficient absorption for a wet wound. Nonwoven gauze can absorb fluid but does not retain moisture effectively, which may lead to desiccation of the wound bed. Transparent adhesive dressings are typically used for dry or minimally exuding wounds and do not absorb fluid, making them unsuitable for shallow, wet wounds. Therefore, moisture-retentive dressings are the most effective choice for promoting healing in this type of wound.