How should you manage excessive skin moisture around the wound?

• A. Wash and dry skin and apply protective sealant
• B. Apply petroleum jelly directly to skin
• C. Leave skin moist
• D. Use a moisture-absorbing powder only

Answer: (A)

Excess moisture around a wound damages the surrounding skin through maceration and slows healing, so the goal is to clean, dry, and protect the area with a barrier. Washing and drying removes irritants and excess moisture, and applying a protective sealant creates a moisture barrier that shields the skin from drainage and friction while allowing the wound to be treated. This combination helps preserve skin integrity and supports healing.

Using petroleum jelly directly on the skin around the wound isn’t ideal because it can trap moisture and create an occlusive layer that may interfere with dressing adhesion and drainage management. Relying on a moisture-absorbing powder alone isn’t sufficient, as powders do not provide an effective barrier or protection against ongoing moisture and friction. Leaving the skin moist clearly promotes further maceration and damage.