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

Which of the following is a recommended alternative to wet to dry dressings?

1. Wet to dry with saline solution

2. Damp to damp dressings

3. Dry gauze dressings

4. Suction drainage

The correct answer is: Damp to damp dressings

Damp to damp dressings are recognized as a recommended alternative to wet to dry dressings due to their ability to maintain a moist environment while facilitating the removal of exudate and debris from the wound. This moist environment is essential for promoting healing, as it can help support granulation tissue formation and reduce the risk of desiccation. Unlike wet to dry dressings, which can cause pain and trauma when the dry gauze adheres to the wound bed upon drying, damp to damp dressings are designed to be removed more gently. The moisture helps to keep the dressing from sticking too tightly to the wound, making changes less painful for the patient and minimizing damage to newly formed tissues. This method allows for the necessary oxygen exchange and encourages optimal healing conditions without the drawbacks associated with traditional wet to dry techniques. In contrast, the other options may not provide the same benefits for wound healing or might introduce additional complications.