Wound Care

Question 1

Alginates definition

Answer 1

Derived from seaweed extraction
Highly absorptive
Highly permeable, non-occlusive
Require secondary dressing
Create a hydrophilic gel through interaction of dressing and wound exudate

Question 2

Alginate indications

Answer 2

Partial or full thickness draining wounds
(e.g. pressure or venous ulcers)
Often used on infections
Enables autolytic debridement

Question 3

Foam dressings

Answer 3

Hydrophilic base (contacts wound), hydrophobic outer layer.
Moderate absorption
Encourages autolytic debridement

Question 4

Hydrocolloids

Answer 4

Gel-forming polymers backed by a strong film or foam adhesive.
Absorb moderate exudate by swelling into a gel-like mass.
Enables autolytic debridement
Protection from contamination

Question 5

Hydrocolloid contraindication

Answer 5

Infection

Question 6

Hydrogels

Answer 6

Used on wounds that have minimal drainage

Provide moist environment for wound healing

Question 7

Transparent Film

Answer 7

Permeable to vapor and oxygen
Impermeable to bacteria and water
Used for wounds with minimal drainage
- excessive exudate accumulation can > maceration

Question 8

Transparent film contraindication

Answer 8

Infection