Wound dressings look similar on the shelf but do very different jobs. Choosing between foam, hydrogel, alginate, hydrocolloid and film dressings is easier once you know what each one is designed to do. This guide explains the main types in plain English for aged care teams, carers and buyers in Australia. It is general information, not clinical advice: dressing choice for an individual should follow a wound assessment by a nurse, wound care specialist or GP.

Start with the wound, not the dressing

Clinicians usually look at the wound bed, the amount of fluid (exudate), the condition of the surrounding skin, signs of infection and the person's overall health before choosing a dressing. The same dressing will not suit a dry wound and a heavily weeping one.

The main dressing types at a glance

Type	What it does	Commonly used for	Things to check
Foam	Absorbs fluid and cushions the wound	Light to heavy exudate; some foams are used over pressure-prone areas	Size and shape, adhesive or non-adhesive, how often it needs changing
Hydrogel	Adds moisture to dry wounds	Dry or sloughy wounds, as directed clinically	Gel or sheet form; usually needs a secondary dressing
Alginate	Absorbs fluid into a gel and can help with minor bleeding	Moderate to heavy exudate, deeper wounds	Not for dry wounds; needs a secondary dressing
Hydrocolloid	Forms a gel over the wound and keeps it moist	Light to moderate exudate, some superficial wounds	Not usually suited to infected wounds; can be hard on fragile skin
Transparent film	Waterproof, breathable cover that lets you see the site	Superficial wounds, securing cannulas, protecting at-risk skin	Does not absorb fluid; gentle removal is important on fragile skin
Non-adherent contact layer	Sits on the wound without sticking to it	Wounds where pain on removal is a concern	Needs an absorbent secondary dressing

Primary and secondary dressings

A primary dressing sits directly on the wound. A secondary dressing covers it, absorbs extra fluid or holds it in place. Hydrogels, alginates and contact layers are usually primary dressings and need a secondary dressing, while many foams and hydrocolloids work as both in one product.

Practical points for aged care

• Fragile skin. Silicone-edged or low-adhesive options are often preferred, because strong adhesives can cause skin tears when removed.
• Wear time. A dressing that stays on for the recommended period means fewer changes, less disturbance to the wound and less staff time.
• Sizes. Keep a small range of sizes that suit common body sites such as the sacrum, heels and lower legs.
• Documentation. Record the dressing used, the date and the wound's appearance at each change, in line with your policy.

Signs to escalate

Increasing pain, spreading redness, heat, swelling, a bad smell, pus, fever or a wound that is not improving should be escalated to a nurse, wound care specialist or GP promptly.

Ordering wound care supplies from BIOFAST

BIOFAST is a Melbourne-based Australian supplier of wound care, continence, PPE and personal care products. Aged care facilities can apply for a 30-day trade account (a completed credit application is required). Orders placed before 2pm normally ship the same day, and delivery is free over $199 in metro areas. Browse the wound care range and aged care supplies, or contact the sales team at sales@biofast.com.au or on 03 8905 4449.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between foam and hydrocolloid dressings?

Foam dressings absorb fluid into a padded layer and are used across a wide range of exudate levels. Hydrocolloid dressings form a gel as they absorb and are generally used for light to moderate exudate on suitable wounds.

When is a hydrogel dressing used?

Hydrogels add moisture and are commonly used on dry or sloughy wounds, as directed by a clinician. They usually need a secondary dressing.

Do alginate dressings need a second dressing?

Yes. Alginates are usually covered with a secondary dressing, and they are not generally used on dry wounds.

Can aged care facilities buy wound dressings on account?

Yes. BIOFAST offers 30-day trade accounts to aged care facilities, subject to a completed credit application. Email sales@biofast.com.au to start.