Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your readiness for the exam day!

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What should be applied to dry skin to prevent skin injury?

  1. Barrier films

  2. Heavy creams

  3. Alcohol-based solutions

  4. Wet dressings

The correct answer is: Barrier films

Barrier films should be applied to dry skin to prevent skin injury because they create a protective layer over the skin, shielding it from potential irritants, moisture loss, and friction. These films form a thin, breathable film that locks in hydration and helps protect vulnerable skin areas from damage due to external factors. Heavy creams, while moisturizing, do not provide the same level of protective barrier as films and may not adhere well to the skin for extended periods. Alcohol-based solutions can be drying and irritating, which is counterproductive for dry skin. Wet dressings, although beneficial for certain conditions involving weeping or exudative wounds, do not address the specific need to protect dry skin and can lead to a maceration issue if the skin is not already compromised. Therefore, barrier films are the most appropriate choice in this scenario.