CFA CFA Wound Closure & Dressing Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which dressing type is most appropriate for wounds with heavy exudate?
- Transparent film
- Hydrocolloid
- Alginate (Correct answer)
- Dry gauze
Correct answer: Alginate
Alginate dressings are highly absorbent, derived from seaweed, and form a gel as they absorb large amounts of wound exudate.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of a pressure dressing after surgery?
- Keep the wound moist
- Prevent hematoma formation (Correct answer)
- Deliver topical antibiotics
- Prevent all infection
Correct answer: Prevent hematoma formation
Pressure dressings apply uniform compression to eliminate dead space, reduce edema, and prevent accumulation of blood or fluid.
Question 3: Which dressing is appropriate for a clean, dry, low-exudate surgical incision?
- Wet-to-dry gauze
- Transparent film dressing (Correct answer)
- Alginate
- Hydrogel
Correct answer: Transparent film dressing
Transparent film dressings protect clean, low-exudate wounds while allowing visualization of the incision without removal.
Question 4: How long should a standard surgical dressing typically remain undisturbed after initial placement?
- 6 hours
- 12 hours
- 24–48 hours (Correct answer)
- 72–96 hours
Correct answer: 24–48 hours
Most surgical dressings are left in place for 24–48 hours to support initial wound healing and reduce the risk of introducing pathogens.
Question 5: What is the primary role of petroleum gauze (Xeroform) in wound dressings?
- Absorb excess drainage
- Provide a non-adherent interface (Correct answer)
- Deliver topical antibiotics
- Debride necrotic tissue
Correct answer: Provide a non-adherent interface
Petroleum-impregnated gauze creates a non-stick layer that prevents the dressing from adhering to and traumatizing healing wound tissue on removal.
Question 6: Which dressing type is contraindicated for wounds with suspected anaerobic infection?
- Alginate
- Wet-to-dry gauze
- Occlusive hydrocolloid (Correct answer)
- Transparent film
Correct answer: Occlusive hydrocolloid
Occlusive hydrocolloid dressings seal out oxygen, creating an anaerobic environment that can promote growth of anaerobic bacteria in infected wounds.
CFA CFA Wound Closure & Dressing Techniques 2
Which dressing type is most appropriate for wounds with heavy exudate?