Question

Debriding enzymes should not be applied to the surrounding skin or periwound area, because they cause burning sensations and paresthesia around the wound. The foam should be applied only after packing the wound with alginate, because it holds the alginate against the wound surface. However, foam may not induce a burning sensation in the wound area. Dry gauze should be applied directly over the wound, because it covers the wound base and maintains hydrogel wound interface. Debriding enzyme ointments should be applied as a thin layer only to the necrotic area of ulcer, because a thin layer acts more effectively than a thick layer.

a. Foam induces a burning sensation in the wound area
b. Dry gauze is ideal for wound packing
c. Debriding enzymes should be applied to the surrounding skin
d. Debriding enzyme ointments should be applied in a thick layer

Answer 1

Debriding enzymes are used for wound care and should be applied as a thin layer only to necrotic areas to prevent irritation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering wound care, specific interventions depend heavily on the type and condition of the wound. Debriding enzymes are used in wound care to selectively remove dead or necrotic tissue. It is important to apply these enzymes only to the necrotic areas of the wound and not to the surrounding healthy skin or periwound area because they can cause a burning sensation and paresthesia (abnormal skin sensations). The correct application is a thin layer, as this is more effective than applying a thick layer, which would not offer additional benefits and could indeed cause harm.

Dry gauze is mentioned in the context of wound dressing, and while it covers the wound base, alginate dressings and foam dressings are also used in wound care. Alginate helps in packing the wound, which can hold the alginate against the wound surface, and foam dressings may be used to provide additional protection without inducing a burning sensation. Therefore, the use of these materials must be tailored to the current condition of the wound and the desired outcome of treatment.