Question

A client has a small wound with moderate drainage. The nurse should apply:

A) Hydrophilic polyurethane
B) Gauze dressing
C) Adhesive tape
D) Hydrocolloid dressing

Answer 1

For moderate drainage in a small wound, the nurse should apply a hydrocolloid dressing to absorb the exudate and promote a moist healing environment.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client with a small wound that has moderate drainage, the nurse should apply a hydrocolloid dressing. Hydrocolloid dressings are highly absorbent, and they create a moist environment that promotes healing while also protecting the wound from infection. This type of dressing helps in the management of moderate drainage, which aligns with the clinical focus of keeping the wound clean and managing bacterial infection until lab results are available. Hydrophilic polyurethane is also used for wounds but is more appropriate for wounds with less exudate. Gauze dressing would require frequent changes and may not handle moderate exudate as effectively. Adhesive tape is not a dressing but a means to secure a dressing in place.