A nurse is caring for a client who has multiple sclerosis and a chronic nonhealing wound. The nurse should recognize that which of the following types of medications is known to delay wound healing?

Choice A rationale
Hydrocolloid dressings are not designed to keep a wound dry; instead, they maintain a moist environment which is conducive to wound healing. They absorb exudate and form a gel, which promotes granulation and epithelialization.

Choice B rationale
The primary purpose of a hydrocolloid dressing is to remain in place for an extended period, typically up to 7 days. This minimizes disturbance to the wound, reduces the risk of infection, and maintains a moist healing environment.

Choice C rationale
While hydrocolloid dressings can help prevent bacterial growth due to their occlusive nature, their main function is not to destroy microorganisms. They provide a barrier against external contaminants and support autolytic debridement.

Choice D rationale
The main purpose of hydrocolloid dressings is to promote a moist healing environment. They contain gel-forming agents that absorb exudate and maintain a moist wound bed, which facilitates faster healing and reduced scar formation.

Choice A rationale
A headache is a nonspecific symptom and can be associated with many conditions. It is not typically indicative of internal hemorrhage, which is more likely to present with hemodynamic changes.

Choice B rationale
While a rising pulse is a sign of internal hemorrhage due to the body’s attempt to maintain cardiac output, the blood pressure would typically fall, not rise, as the blood volume decreases.

Choice C rationale
Lethargy and a falling pulse are signs of decreased cardiac output, but in the case of internal hemorrhage, the blood pressure would usually fall, not rise, due to the loss of blood volume.

Choice D rationale
Restlessness, a rising pulse, and falling blood pressure are classic signs of internal hemorrhage. The body responds to blood loss by increasing heart rate to maintain perfusion, but as volume continues to decrease, blood pressure falls.