A<unk> can have a number of purposes, depending on the type, severity and position of the wound, although all purposes are focused on promoting recovery and protecting from further harm. Key purposes of a<unk> are: * Stem bleeding – to help to seal the wound to expedite the clotting process; * Protection from infection – to defend the wound against germs and mechanical damage; * Absorb exudate – to soak up blood, plasma, and other fluids exuded from the wound, containing it/them in one place and preventing maceration; * Ease pain – either by a medicated analgesic effect, compression or simply preventing pain from further trauma; * Debride the wound – to remove slough and foreign objects from the wound to expedite healing; * Reduce psychological stress – to obscure a healing wound from the view of the patient and others. Ultimately, the aim of a<unk> is to promote healing of the wound by providing a sterile, breathable and moist environment that facilitates granulation and epithelialization. This will then reduce the risk of infection, help the wound heal more quickly, and reduce scarring.
Dressing 
Skin disinfection
Field dressing 
Surgical suture
Urination
Skin care
Tooth polishing
Hand sanitizer