What is the term for dressing that forms an airtight seal?

The term for dressing that forms an airtight seal is "occlusive." This type of dressing is specifically designed to prevent the passage of air and fluids, making it ideal for certain medical situations, particularly in cases where a wound needs to be sealed off from external contaminants or when treating puncture wounds. Occlusive dressings are often used to manage conditions such as pneumothorax or to create a protective environment for healing.

In contrast, adhesive dressings are generally used to hold bandages in place but do not necessarily provide an airtight seal. A compress is typically used to apply pressure to a wound or injury to control bleeding or reduce swelling, while absorbent dressings are designed to soak up exudate from wounds but may not form an airtight barrier.