A nurse is changing a dressing over a client's abdominal surgical incision. Which action by the nurse is most important?
A) Apply dressings using aseptic or sterile technique.
B) Irrigate the wound with copious amounts of solution.
C) Use strict sterile technique, including sterile gloves.
D) Wash the suture line carefully to remove debris.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To prevent wound infection, change dressings with either aseptic or sterile technique. Strict sterile technique with sterile gloves is usually not needed. Do not touch the side of the dressing that will touch the client. A noninfected surgical incision does not need to be irrigated. You should not wash the suture line because the water might carry microorganisms into the wound along the sutures.

A Nurse Is Changing a Dressing Over a Client's Abdominal