Which treatment is recommended for infected wounds to aid healing?

The recommendation for using antimicrobial dressings for infected wounds is based on their ability to provide a localized delivery of antimicrobial agents directly to the wound site. These dressings can help reduce the bacterial load, thus decreasing the risk of further infection and promoting healing. Antimicrobial properties can come from various substances like silver, iodine, or honey, which have been shown to be effective against a range of pathogens.

While hydrocolloid dressings are beneficial for providing a moist environment and support granulation tissue formation, they may not be specifically effective against infections. Moist wound healing techniques are valuable in promoting an optimal healing environment, but they do not have inherent antimicrobial properties. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can enhance wound healing in certain situations, particularly for chronic wounds, but it is not the first-line treatment for already infected wounds without a comprehensive treatment plan. Therefore, the use of antimicrobial dressings stands out as the most directly beneficial option for managing infected wounds and promoting healing.