Which statement about dry dressings is true?

• A. Decreases the risk for burns
• B. Penetrates deeply into tissue layers
• C. Retains temperature longer because evaporation does not occur
• D. Softens wound exudate

Answer: (C)

Think about heat loss from a wound in relation to moisture. Evaporation of moisture cools the surface, so a dressing that allows moisture to evaporate quickly will lead to faster cooling. A dry dressing has little moisture to evaporate, so heat stays at the wound area longer. That’s why it’s said to retain temperature longer because evaporation doesn’t occur (or is greatly reduced) with a dry dressing.

The other statements don’t fit this concept. A dressing doesn’t penetrate into tissue layers; its function is to cover and protect the wound, not invade tissue. Dry dressings don’t soften wound exudate—that effect is more associated with moist dressings that hydrate the wound and exudate. And while dry dressings serve as a barrier, they don’t specifically reduce the risk of burns.