Question

Hydrogel dressings hydrate the wounds and provide a moist environment. Therefore, these dressings are preferred for dry wounds. Hydrocolloid dressings help in the healing of clean granulating wounds and autolytically debride necrotic wounds. Calcium alginate dressings should not be used in dry wounds, because they require secondary dressing. Debriding enzymes should be applied only over the necrotic areas of the wounds; they are not used specifically for dry wounds.

a) Hydrogel dressings are not preferred for dry wounds.
b) Hydrocolloid dressings are not used for clean granulating wounds.
c) Calcium alginate dressings are used in dry wounds.
d) Debriding enzymes are applied over non-necrotic areas.

Answer 1

Hydrogel dressings hydrate dry wounds, while hydrocolloid dressings are used for granulating and autolytic debridement of necrotic wounds. Calcium alginate dressings are recommended for exuding wounds, not dry ones, and debriding enzymes target necrotic tissue. The selection of wound dressings affects the stages of healing, including coagulation, granulation, and regeneration. The correct option is a) Hydrogel dressings are not preferred for dry wounds.

Step-by-step explanation:

When managing wounds, it's essential to choose the appropriate dressing based on the condition of the wound. Hydrogel dressings are preferred for dry wounds because they add moisture and promote a moist healing environment. Conversely, hydrocolloid dressings are excellent for cleaning granulating wounds and can also autolytically debride necrotic tissue.

Calcium alginate dressings should not be used on dry wounds as they are designed for wounds that produce exudate and require a secondary dressing to manage moisture. Debriding enzymes are applied specifically to necrotic areas to facilitate the removal of dead tissue without affecting the surrounding healthy tissue.

It's important to recognize that healing involves stages like clotting, formation of granulation tissue, wound contraction, and regeneration, hence, the selection of an appropriate dressing or treatment method affects the healing process significantly. While historically hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) was used frequently, its use is now limited due to the potential for impeding healing and inducing scarring. The correct option is a) Hydrogel dressings are not preferred for dry wounds.