A moist environment provides the optimum conditions for wound healing, but maintaining control of exudate and preventing its contact with the surrounding skin remain a challenge to carers. An essential part of management is identifying the underlying pathology of the wound. Correct diagnosis of the cause of increased exudate production is necessary for the implementation of appropriate interventions. Continual assessment of the wound and surrounding skin, together with evaluation of dressing performance, are integral to manage the different stages of wound healing.