Wound Treatment Associate (WTA) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using gels in wound management?

1. To absorb exudate

2. To provide moisture to dry wounds

3. To promote speedy healing

4. To prevent infections

The correct answer is: To provide moisture to dry wounds

Using gels in wound management serves the primary purpose of providing moisture to dry wounds. This is important because moist wound environments create optimal conditions for healing. By maintaining hydration at the wound site, gels can facilitate cell migration and proliferation, which are critical processes for tissue repair. Additionally, moisture helps to soften necrotic tissue, enabling easier debridement and enhancing overall healing. Gels can also help to reduce pain by providing a soothing layer over the wound, making them particularly beneficial for dry or non-draining wounds. The hydrocolloid or hydrogel composition of these products allows for the absorption of minimal exudates while maintaining an adequate moisture balance, which is essential for enhancing the natural healing processes. While the other options mention important aspects of wound care, such as absorption of exudate and prevention of infections, those functions are typically associated with other dressing types rather than gels. The primary action of gels focuses on moisture provision, which directly impacts the healing environment of dry wounds.