A nurse is caring for a client who has a stage 3 pressure ulcer on the sacrum. Which type of dressing should the nurse use to promote moist wound healing?

Correct answer: A) Autograft

Rationale: An autograft is a type of skin graft that uses the client's own skin as the donor site. This is the preferred type of graft, as it has the lowest risk of rejection and infection, and provides the best cosmetic and functional results.

Incorrect options:

B) Allograft - This is a type of skin graft that uses human skin from a cadaver or a living donor as the donor site. This type of graft is used as a temporary measure to cover large wounds until an autograft is available.

C) Xenograft - This is a type of skin graft that uses animal skin, usually from pigs, as the donor site. This type of graft is also used as a temporary measure to protect wounds from infection and fluid loss until an autograft is available.

D) Mesh graft - This is a type of skin graft that involves making small slits in the donor skin to create a mesh-like pattern. This allows the graft to cover a larger area and conform to irregular surfaces. This type of graft can be either an autograft or an allograft.

Correct answer: A) Hydrocolloid

Rationale: Hydrocolloid dressings are occlusive and adhesive, forming a gel-like substance over the wound bed that maintains a moist environment and facilitates autolytic debridement. They are suitable for stage 3 pressure ulcers, as they protect the wound from contamination and reduce pain and trauma during dressing changes.

Incorrect options:

B) Transparent film - This type of dressing is semi-permeable and allows oxygen exchange, but does not absorb exudate or provide cushioning. It is suitable for stage 1 pressure ulcers, as it protects the skin from friction and moisture.

C) Calcium alginate - This type of dressing is highly absorbent and forms a gel-like substance when in contact with wound exudate. It is suitable for stage 4 pressure ulcers with heavy drainage, as it fills the dead space and promotes hemostasis.

D) Gauze - This type of dressing is inexpensive and readily available, but it can adhere to the wound bed and cause pain and bleeding during removal. It is suitable for stage 4 pressure ulcers with minimal drainage, as it provides mechanical debridement.