Assisting With Wound Care Practice Exam

A loose dressing can lead to the escape of drainage, which is critical because improper management of wound exudate can create an environment conducive to infection. When a dressing is not secured properly, it may not adequately absorb excess fluid from the wound, leading to potential complications such as prolonged healing times or the development of infection. Moreover, drainage that escapes from the dressing can saturate surrounding skin, increasing the risk of maceration and further complications.

While other issues such as skin tears, wound edge separation, or pressure ulcers are concerns in wound care, they are more directly related to factors like the tension applied to the dressing or the condition of the skin surrounding the wound, rather than the primary impact of a loose dressing. The primary immediate concern with a loose dressing is the potential for drainage to escape and the consequent effects on wound healing and infection control.