A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has an infected wound with significant exudate.
Which of the following dressings should the nurse plan to cover the client's wound?

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Leaving nonbleeding wounds open to air increases the risk of infection and delayed healing. Wounds need a moist environment to promote cell migration and collagen synthesis, essential for the initial inflammatory phase of healing.

Choice B rationale: Corticosteroids suppress the immune response and inflammation, which can delay wound healing. They inhibit leukocyte migration and fibroblast proliferation, which are crucial during the initial stage of the healing process.

Choice C rationale: Mechanical debridement is typically used for chronic wounds with necrotic tissue. In the initial stage of wound healing, it is not necessary and could damage newly formed tissue, delaying the healing process.

Choice D rationale: Oxygen therapy at 2L/min via nasal cannula enhances tissue oxygenation, promoting cellular activities such as collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and leukocyte function, which are critical during the initial inflammatory phase of wound healing.

Choice A rationale:

Karaya paste is used for ostomy care, not for dressing changes.

Choice B rationale:

Paper tape might not provide the necessary adhesion for frequent dressing changes.

Choice C rationale:

Elastic adhesive tape is typically used for strains and sprains, not for dressing changes.

Choice D rationale:

Montgomery straps are adhesive strips that can be tied and untied to secure dressings without removing and reapplying tape. This can help reduce skin irritation from repeated tape removal.