wounddressing

Wound dressing, also known as wound dressing, is a material applied to a wound to protect it from contamination, manage moisture, support healing, and reduce pain. Dressings are selected to match wound type, level of exudate, the presence of necrotic tissue, infection risk, and patient factors such as comorbidities and skin integrity. The goal is to maintain an optimal wound environment—neither too dry nor overly wet—while preventing maceration and facilitating moisture balance and gentle debridement when appropriate.

Common categories include traditional dressings (sterile gauze and non-adherent pads) and advanced dressings designed to manage moisture and promote healing. Advanced options include hydrocolloid, hydrogel, polyurethane foam, alginate, film, and composite dressings. Hydrogels add moisture to dry wounds; foams and alginates absorb exudate; films provide a barrier and are useful on clean, minimally exuding wounds; hydrocolloids help maintain moisture for low to moderate exudate; antimicrobial or silver- or iodine-containing dressings may be used when infection is a concern or risk is high. Dressing choices also consider adherence, risk of allergy, cost, and the need for removal without trauma.

Application and change intervals depend on wound type and exudate level; dressings are typically changed when saturated, leaking, or as prescribed. Clinicians monitor for signs of infection or deterioration. Proper technique and sterile supplies reduce contamination risk, and some wounds require debridement or integration with topical medications. Transparent dressings allow inspection without removal. Chronic wounds, such as ulcers, often need a structured care plan and regular reassessment.