Contact layer dressings require secondary dressings. Contact layers may not be recommended for Stage I pressure ulcers or for wounds that are shallow, dehydrated, covered with eschar, or draining a viscous exudate. Search for a product Top of the page Foams Foam dressings are nonlinting and absorbent. They vary in thickness and have a nonadherent layer that provides nontraumatic removal. Some foam dressings have an adhesive border and may have a film coating as an additional barrier to bacteria.
Foams create a moist environment and provide thermal insulation to the wound.
Foams may require a secondary dressing, tape, wrap, or net to anchor them in place. They also may be used to absorb drainage around tubes. Foams may not be effective for wounds with dry eschar. They may macerate periwound skin if they become saturated. Gauze dressings may be impregnated, nonadherent, woven, or nonwoven.