Which principle supports moist wound healing for ulcers?

• A. Maintaining a moist wound environment promotes healing.
• B. Letting the wound dry completely between dressing changes.
• C. Applying dry gauze until the wound scabs over.
• D. Using hot air to dry the wound.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a moist wound environment promotes healing. When the wound surface stays moist, skin cells (like keratinocytes) and fibroblasts can move and reproduce to cover and repair the area more quickly. Moisture supports enzymatic activity and autolytic debridement, helps preserve growth factors, and reduces pain because nerves aren’t exposed to drying, harsh surfaces. Using dressings designed to keep moisture balanced—such as hydrocolloids, hydrogels, or transparent films—helps the wound heal faster without causing maceration of surrounding skin.

Letting the wound dry completely between dressing changes slows healing, increases discomfort, and can create a barrier to cell migration. Applying dry gauze until scabbing forms similarly desiccates tissue and hinders repair. Using hot air to dry the wound can cause tissue damage and additional pain.