Dressing (medicine)
Dressing (medicine)
A dressing is a sterile pad or compress applied to a wound to promote healing and protect the wound from further harm. A dressing is designed to be in direct contact with the wound, as distinguished from a bandage, which is most often used to hold a dressing in place. Many modern dressings are self-adhesive.
Types of Dressings[edit | edit source]
There are many different types of dressings, and the type used will depend on the nature of the wound. Some of the most common types include:
- Gauze - This is a thin, translucent fabric with a loose open weave. It is used to absorb fluid from the wound and provide a dry environment.
- Hydrocolloid dressing - This type of dressing is used for wounds that have a significant amount of exudate. It helps to keep the wound moist and promote healing.
- Hydrogel dressing - This type of dressing is used for wounds that are dry and need moisture. It helps to hydrate the wound and promote healing.
- Alginate dressing - This type of dressing is used for wounds that have a lot of exudate. It helps to absorb the fluid and provide a moist environment for healing.
- Foam dressing - This type of dressing is used for wounds that have a moderate amount of exudate. It helps to absorb the fluid and provide a moist environment for healing.
Application of Dressings[edit | edit source]
The application of a dressing is a crucial step in wound management. The dressing should be applied in a sterile manner to prevent infection. The wound should be cleaned before the dressing is applied, and the dressing should be changed regularly to promote healing.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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