What should be placed in the middle of a gauze dressing for a wound?

Generally, sterile gauze pads, medical absorbent cotton, absorbent dressings, or Vaseline gauze can be placed in the middle of a gauze dressing over a wound. The specific choice should be based on the amount of wound exudate and the healing stage. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the wound has minimal exudate and is in the dry healing phase, sterile gauze pads or medical absorbent cotton may be used. These materials are breathable and help maintain a dry wound environment, reduce external contamination, prevent friction against the wound surface, protect newly formed skin tissue, and promote stable wound healing. When changing the dressing, handle gently to avoid pulling or damaging the wound.

If the wound produces significant exudate or carries a slight risk of infection, it is advisable to use absorbent dressings or Vaseline gauze. Absorbent dressings quickly absorb exudate, keeping the surrounding skin dry and reducing the risk of infection. Vaseline gauze forms a protective barrier on the wound surface, minimizing moisture loss, making it suitable for superficial injuries or wounds prone to drying. It also prevents the gauze from adhering to the wound, thereby reducing pain during dressing changes.

Before selecting a dressing material, ensure that it is sterile and avoid using non-medical items. During dressing changes, monitor the wound’s healing progress. If increased exudate, redness, swelling, or foul odor occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Do not arbitrarily change the type of dressing without professional advice.