Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Test

The nurse is providing care for a patient with a sacral pressure ulcer using a wet-to-dry dressing. What guideline is appropriate for this dressing?

1. A plastic sheet-type dressing should cover the wet dressing

2. The dressing should remain moist from the dressing

3. The dressing should be allowed to dry before it's removed

4. The wet-to-dry dressing should be tightly packed into the wound

The correct answer is: The dressing should be allowed to dry before it's removed

A A plastic sheet-type dressing should not be used as it can create a moist environment that can lead to further tissue damage and infection. B: The dressing should not remain moist as it can cause maceration and slow down the healing process. D: The wet-to-dry dressing should not be tightly packed into the wound as it can damage the surrounding healthy tissue and delay wound healing.