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How should after-care be managed for skin grafts?
Keep the graft site dry and exposed to air
Maintain intimate contact between graft and wound bed
Apply frequent heavy pressure dressings
Allow complete motion to encourage healing
The correct answer is: Maintain intimate contact between graft and wound bed
Maintaining intimate contact between the graft and wound bed is crucial for successful skin graft healing. This intimate contact facilitates adherence of the graft to the underlying tissue, which is essential for nutrient diffusion, stabilization, and minimizing the risk of complications, such as graft slippage or necrosis. Good contact also supports the revascularization process, which is necessary for the graft to gain its own blood supply and survive. In practice, this means using appropriate dressings that keep the graft in place and prevent any movement that might disrupt the graft's position. This helps to ensure that the graft can integrate properly with the surrounding tissues and promotes optimal outcomes. Proper after-care is vital in preserving the viability of the graft and can significantly affect the overall healing process.