Which of the following is commonly applied to wounds to promote healing?

The correct choice, dressing, is commonly applied to wounds to promote healing because it serves as a protective barrier that keeps the wound clean, absorbs exudate, and can maintain a moist environment, which is beneficial for the healing process. Dressings can also help to reduce the risk of infection by shielding the wound from external contaminants.

In addition to providing protection, certain dressings are designed to promote healing through various mechanisms, such as maintaining moisture and allowing gas exchange, which can optimize the wound healing environment. Some advanced dressings may also incorporate antimicrobial properties to inhibit infection while promoting the natural healing process.

Although bandages are often used in conjunction with dressings to hold them in place and add an extra layer of protection, they do not directly facilitate the healing of the wound itself. Antibiotics are important in the treatment of infections but are not applied to wounds for healing purposes; they are typically administered systemically or locally only when an infection is present. Salves can sometimes provide soothing effects or may be used for minor skin irritations, but they do not offer the same level of protection and healing promotion specifically tailored for wound care as dressings do.