Why are dressings applied to wounds?

Dressings are applied to wounds for a variety of reasons, including:

* To protect the wound from infection. Dressings create a physical barrier between the wound and the environment, which helps to prevent bacteria from entering the wound and causing an infection.

* To control bleeding. Dressings can help to stop bleeding by absorbing blood and putting pressure on the wound.

* To reduce swelling. Dressings can help to reduce swelling by absorbing fluid from the wound and by providing support to the injured area.

* To relieve pain. Dressings can help to relieve pain by providing a cushion between the wound and clothing or other surfaces, and by reducing swelling.

* To promote healing. Dressings can help to promote healing by creating a moist environment that is conducive to cell growth, and by protecting the wound from damage.

In addition to these general benefits, dressings may also be used for specific purposes, such as to:

* Remove dead tissue from a wound. Dressings that contain certain enzymes can help to break down and remove dead tissue from a wound, which can promote healing.

* Absorb excess drainage from a wound. Dressings that are highly absorbent can help to keep a wound dry and prevent maceration, which is a breakdown of the skin around the wound.

* Provide support to a wound. Dressings that provide support can help to immobilize an injured area and prevent further damage.