Which of these statements is true regarding surgical wounds and dressings?

Which of these statements is true regarding surgical wounds and dressings?

• A. Dry dressings are always better for all types of wounds
• B. Wounds should be kept moist to promote healing
• C. Only sterile dressings should be used after surgery
• D. Wounds do not need to be monitored after dressing

Answer: (B)

Keeping wounds moist to promote healing is supported by research indicating that a moist environment can accelerate the healing process. This approach facilitates cell migration, reduces pain, and minimizes scar formation. Moisture helps create an optimal environment for skin cells to proliferate and migrate across the wound bed, which is vital for closure and repair. In contrast, dry dressings can lead to scab formation, which can impede healing and potentially increase the risk of wound complications. While sterile dressings are critical immediately following surgery to prevent infection, not all dressings must be sterile in every context after surgery, depending on the type of wound care being administered. Finally, wounds must be regularly monitored for signs of infection or other complications, as neglecting to assess the condition of the wound can lead to significant issues.

Keeping wounds moist to promote healing is supported by research indicating that a moist environment can accelerate the healing process. This approach facilitates cell migration, reduces pain, and minimizes scar formation. Moisture helps create an optimal environment for skin cells to proliferate and migrate across the wound bed, which is vital for closure and repair.

In contrast, dry dressings can lead to scab formation, which can impede healing and potentially increase the risk of wound complications. While sterile dressings are critical immediately following surgery to prevent infection, not all dressings must be sterile in every context after surgery, depending on the type of wound care being administered. Finally, wounds must be regularly monitored for signs of infection or other complications, as neglecting to assess the condition of the wound can lead to significant issues.