Dressing types

hydrocolloid

for low to moderate exudate, promotes autolysis

foam

for moderate to heavy exudate, provides cushion

alginate

for heavy exudate, promotes hemostasis for sanguinous wounds

hydrofiber

for moderate to heavy drainage, maintains moist wound environment and locks in moisture

hydrogels

for dry wounds to rehydrate, supports autolysis

contact layer

protects wound bed, allows exudate to pass through to secondary dressing

film

barrier for superficial wounds, low exudate

antimicrobial dressing

for infected wounds: silver, iodine, honey

cadexomer iodine gel

reduce dead tissue and bacteria on wounds

collagen

scaffolding for new tissue to grow

hydrofera blue

stops growth of bacteria