A nurse is preparing to perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has a stage III pressure ulcer. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
A.
Don sterile gloves before removing the dressing.
B.
Offer the client pain medication before the procedure.
C.
Prepare the sterile dressing supplies 30 min before the dressing change.
D.
Disinfect the wound bed with alcohol before applying tape
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Offer the client pain medication before the procedure.
Explanation:
When performing a sterile dressing change for a client with a stage III pressure ulcer, it’s crucial to prioritize the client’s comfort and minimize their pain. Offering pain medication before the procedure is a fundamental practice to ensure the client is as comfortable as possible. Pain management is essential because dressing changes can be uncomfortable or painful, especially for clients with extensive wounds or those experiencing significant discomfort.
A. Don sterile gloves before removing the dressing – This action is incorrect because sterile gloves should be worn after the old dressing is removed and the wound is cleaned. This ensures that the sterile field is maintained and reduces the risk of contamination.
C. Prepare the sterile dressing supplies 30 min before the dressing change – This practice is not recommended as it increases the risk of contamination. Sterile supplies should be prepared and used as close to the time of the dressing change as possible to maintain their sterility.
D. Disinfect the wound bed with alcohol before applying tape – Alcohol is not recommended for cleaning wounds as it can be irritating and may delay healing. Wound cleaning typically involves using a saline solution or a prescribed wound cleanser. Alcohol is generally used for disinfecting the skin around the wound or for cleaning the hands, but not directly on the wound bed.
In summary, the priority in wound care is to manage the client’s pain effectively, ensure proper sterile technique during the dressing change, and use appropriate wound cleaning solutions.