A wound covering, typically made of a hydrocolloid, hydrofibre, chitosan or alginate (salts and acids extracted from seaweed), intended to produce a water-absorbent gel upon contact with wound exudate; it does not contain an antimicrobial agent. The device assists in wound healing by absorbing exudate in wounds (e.g., ulcers, burns, surgical wounds, lacerations, abrasions) for minimal wound maceration, allowing wound debridement, and creating a moist wound-healing environment. The device may be in the form of a flat sheet/film, ribbon, rope, foam, liquid, paste, or powder. After application, this device cannot be reused.