A dressing is a sterile pad or compress applied to a wound to promote healing and/or prevent further harm. A dressing is designed to be in direct contact with the wound, as distinguished from a bandage, which is most often used to hold a dressing in place. Some organizations classify them as the same thing (for example, the British Pharmacopoeia) and the terms are used interchangeably by some people. Dressings are frequently used in first aid and nursing.

Wound dressings can be classified based on their function, composition, and clinical indication.

• Function: Protect and cover the wound.
• Examples: Gauze, tulle gras.
• Indication: Superficial wounds with minimal exudate.

• Function: Maintain moist wound environment, promote healing.
• Examples:
  • Hydrocolloids (e.g., Duoderm)
  • Hydrogels (e.g., Intrasite)
  • Alginates (e.g., Kaltostat)
  • Foams (e.g., Mepilex)
• Indication: Moderate to heavily exuding wounds, pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers.

• Function: Deliver therapeutic agents (antimicrobial, growth factors).
• Examples:
  • Collagen-based
  • Silver or iodine dressings
  • Tissue-engineered skin substitutes

• Dry wounds → Hydrogel (adds moisture)
• Moderate/heavy exudate → Foam, alginate
• Infected wounds → Silver or iodine dressings
• Necrotic wounds → Hydrogel (autolytic debridement)
• Postoperative wounds → Film, hydrocolloid
• Burns or fragile skin → Silicone mesh, hydrogel

Leukomed.

Tegaderm.

Film dressing