What is one function of black polyurethane foam dressing in wound management?

• A. Contracts the wound
• B. Absorbs fluids from the wound
• C. Restricts the growth of granulation tissue
• D. Helps to determine depth of the wound

Answer: (B)

Absorbing wound exudate is the function being tested. Black polyurethane foam dressings are highly absorbent and designed to wick drainage away from the wound bed into the dressing, helping to keep the wound moist enough for healing while protecting surrounding skin from maceration. They can also cushion the wound and, in charcoal-containing versions, help with odor. They don’t contract the wound, don’t restrict granulation tissue growth, and don’t help determine wound depth, which is not what this dressing is intended to do.