- Observe and assess old dressing for presence of blood and discharges.
- Assess clients condition prior to procedure.
- Prepare materials needed.
- Wash hands
- Explain the procedure to the client.
- Provide privacy
- Apply protective barrier if needed
- Position the client comfortably and drape to expose only the wound side, put on disposable gloves.
- Remove soiled dressing
- remove plaster by holdign down the skin and pulling the tape gently but firmly towards the wound.
- remove dressing and place it in a waterproof container.
- Note the type of discharges present and the appearance of the wound.
- Remove soil gloves, apply sterile gloves to remove transmission of microorganisms.
- Get cotton balls with antiseptic solution using pick-up forceps.
- Cleanse the wound
- Cleanse the area of the wound towards the center of the wound in circular motion using several cotton balls for each stroke.
- Apply slight pressure around the wound with dressing to observe for drainage, exudate unless contradicted.
- Dry the area around the wound with operating sponge pad.
- Apply ointment if needed.
- Apply sterile dressing pad one at a time over the wound.
- Secure the dressing with tape correctly
- Remove the materials and dispose soiled dressing properly.
- Asses client to a comfortable position
- Wash hands
- Document