Which dressing is used for a patient with a clean stage III pressure ulcer?

• A. None
• B. Adherent film
• C. Composite film
• D. Calcium alginate

Answer: (D)

Managing a stage III pressure ulcer focuses on handling drainage while keeping the wound moist and filling the cavity to support healing. Calcium alginate fits this need because it’s highly absorbent and releases a gel when it contacts wound fluid. That gel helps maintain a moist environment, supports autolytic debridement, and is gentle to remove because the dressing stays non-adherent to the wound bed. It also conforms to the wound and can fill deeper spaces, which is important for full-thickness ulcers with exudate.

Thin occlusive dressings like adherent or composite films are best when drainage is minimal and the wound is shallow; they don’t absorb much fluid and can lead to fluid buildup and potential maceration in a deeper wound. So for a clean stage III ulcer with substantial drainage, calcium alginate is the most fitting choice.