Wound Treatment Associate (WTA) Practice Exam

In managing a wound without exudate, which of the following dressings is ineffective?

1. Damp gauze

2. Gel + damp gauze

3. Moisture barrier ointment

4. Transparent adhesive dressing

The correct answer is: Moisture barrier ointment

Using a moisture barrier ointment for managing a wound without exudate is ineffective because these ointments are primarily designed to protect intact skin from moisture and irritants rather than to facilitate healing in an open wound. They create an occlusive barrier that prevents moisture from escaping, which is not beneficial for a wound that is dry and lacking exudate. In such cases, maintaining a moist wound environment is important for promoting healing, but moisture barrier ointments do not contribute to that goal, as they can further dry out the wound. In contrast, options like damp gauze, gel combined with damp gauze, and transparent adhesive dressings can all facilitate a moist wound environment, which is essential for promoting healing. Damp gauze provides some moisture while allowing for some air exposure, gel can hydrate the wound, and transparent adhesive dressings can create a humid environment that prevents moisture loss. Thus, moisture barrier ointments are not suitable for managing wounds where exudate is not present.