Wound Care Techniques and Interventions
Wound Care Techniques and Interventions ( 4 Questions)
A nurse is preparing to change a dressing on a client's surgical incision. Which type of dressing should the nurse use to promote autolytic debridement of the wound?
This is not an appropriate dressing for autolytic debridement, as alginate dressings are used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate that need absorption and hemostasis. Alginate dressings form a gel-like substance when in contact with wound fluid and help to maintain a moist environment for wound healing.
This is not an appropriate dressing for autolytic debridement, as foam dressings are used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate that need insulation and protection. Foam dressings have a soft and absorbent layer that cushions the wound and prevents maceration of the surrounding skin.
This is not an appropriate dressing for autolytic debridement, as gauze dressings are used for wounds with minimal to moderate exudate that need cleansing and packing. Gauze dressings can adhere to the wound surface and cause trauma and bleeding when removed.
Rationale: The nurse should use a hydrogel dressing to promote autolytic debridement of the wound. Autolytic debridement is a natural process that uses the body's own enzymes and moisture to liquefy and remove necrotic tissue from a wound. Hydrogel dressings provide hydration and moisture to dry wounds and facilitate autolytic debridement.
Correct answer: D) Hydrogel dressing
Rationale: The nurse should use a hydrogel dressing to promote autolytic debridement of the wound. Autolytic debridement is a natural process that uses the body's own enzymes and moisture to liquefy and remove necrotic tissue from a wound. Hydrogel dressings provide hydration and moisture to dry wounds and facilitate autolytic debridement.
Incorrect options:
A) Alginate dressing - This is not an appropriate dressing for autolytic debridement, as alginate dressings are used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate that need absorption and hemostasis. Alginate dressings form a gel-like substance when in contact with wound fluid and help to maintain a moist environment for wound healing.
B) Foam dressing - This is not an appropriate dressing for autolytic debridement, as foam dressings are used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate that need insulation and protection. Foam dressings have a soft and absorbent layer that cushions the wound and prevents maceration of the surrounding skin.
C) Gauze dressing - This is not an appropriate dressing for autolytic debridement, as gauze dressings are used for wounds with minimal to moderate exudate that need cleansing and packing. Gauze dressings can adhere to the wound surface and cause trauma and bleeding when removed.