Wound care
Wound Dressing Types Explained
Gauze, foam, hydrocolloid and more: which dressing suits which wound, how often to change it and when to ask for help.
Common dressing types
- Gauze and non-stick pads: simple and cheap; good for small wounds.
- Transparent films: let you see the wound; for minor, dry wounds.
- Hydrocolloids: gel-forming; shallow wounds with light drainage; can stay on several days.
- Foams: cushioning and absorbent; moderate drainage and pressure areas.
- Alginates: made from seaweed; heavy drainage; need a cover dressing.
- Hydrogels: add moisture to dry wounds and help soften dead tissue.
- Antimicrobial dressings (silver, honey): for wounds at risk of infection.
How to change a dressing
- Wash your hands and gather supplies.
- Remove the old dressing gently; soak with saline if stuck.
- Clean the wound with saline or clean water.
- Pat the surrounding skin dry.
- Apply the new dressing, covering the wound with a margin.
- Wash your hands again and note any changes.
What to watch for
- More drainage than usual, or a change in color or smell
- Redness or soreness of the skin around the wound
- The wound getting bigger
- Pain increasing
How we can help
Our advanced wound care service chooses the right dressing for each stage of healing, teaches you or your caregiver how to change it, and adjusts the plan as the wound improves. Home visits are available.
Questions people ask
How often should I change my dressing?
It depends on the type and the drainage. Some stay on for several days; others need daily changes.
Can I shower with a dressing?
Many modern dressings are shower-proof. Otherwise, cover it with plastic and change it if it gets wet.
Is antibiotic ointment necessary?
Usually not for clean wounds. Petroleum jelly keeps small wounds moist.
Talk it through with Lydia
Confused by dressing options? We will show you exactly what to use. See a board-certified nurse practitioner virtually anywhere in Virginia, in our Woodbridge office, or straight to your front door in much of Northern Virginia.
Visits start at $85, and every membership comes with a 30-day trial.
Prefer to ask first? Text us at (571) 402-2102 or message us on WhatsApp.
