For a dry wound, which dressing is preferred?

• A. Gauze sponges
• B. Hydrogel
• C. Calcium alginate
• D. Debriding enzymes

Answer: (B)

Moist wound healing yields better outcomes, especially when the wound bed is dry. A dressing that adds moisture to rehydrate and keep the surface moist supports cell migration and healing. A hydrogel is ideal here because it’s rich in water, rehydrates a parched wound bed, softens any slough, and maintains a moist environment without sticking aggressively to new tissue. This helps reduce pain and supports autolytic debridement as needed. Gauze sponges can dry out a wound and may adhere to the bed, which can disrupt healing and cause trauma on removal. Calcium alginate is highly absorbent and forms a gel in the presence of drainage; in a dry wound there’s little exudate to form that gel, so it won’t provide moisture and can worsen dryness or stickiness. Debriding enzymes target necrotic tissue rather than providing ongoing moisture, so they’re not the best choice for maintaining a suitable healing environment in a dry wound.