Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

Which dressing types are known for providing a moist healing environment?

1. Foam dressings

2. Hydrocolloids

3. Alginate dressings

4. Non-adherent dressings

The correct answer is: Hydrocolloids

Hydrocolloid dressings are recognized for their ability to create a moist healing environment, which is vital for promoting optimal wound healing. These dressings consist of a hydrophilic colloidal component that forms a gel-like substance when it interacts with wound exudate. This gel not only helps to retain moisture but also provides a barrier to external contaminants, thereby facilitating an environment conducive to granulation and epithelial cell migration. Maintaining moisture in the wound bed prevents the formation of scabs, which can hinder healing. The moist environment also contributes to pain reduction and minimizes dressing changes, as the hydrocolloid can remain in place for an extended period, allowing for uninterrupted healing. Other dressing types, while also beneficial, function differently. Foam dressings can indeed provide moisture but are typically used for more absorbent properties to manage high levels of exudate. Alginate dressings are derived from seaweed and absorb significant exudate while creating a gel, so they can maintain some moisture yet are primarily utilized for more exudative wounds. Non-adherent dressings serve to prevent trauma to the wound bed during dressing changes but do not significantly contribute to the moist wound environment that hydrocolloids provide.