Wound Care and Infection Control Guidelines

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Questions and Answers

What is the recommended method for applying tape to a wound?

Lengthwise along the body joint

Across the body joint or crease (correct)

At a diagonal angle to the wound

In the same direction as the contaminating debris

Which cleaning solutions are appropriate for cleaning or irrigating wounds?

Hydrogen peroxide

Detergent solutions

Alcohol-based solutions

Isotonic saline and wound cleansers (correct)

Why should wounds not be dried after cleaning?

To facilitate faster healing without intervention

To reduce swelling around the wound

To prevent scars from forming

To retain wound moisture (correct)

What caution should be taken with antimicrobial solutions when cleaning wounds?

They should be well diluted Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial guideline when using solutions to clean wounds?

Solutions should be warmed to body temperature before use Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstances is it acceptable to avoid cleaning a wound?

If the wound appears to be clean Signup and view all the answers

What essential personal protective equipment should be worn during wound cleaning?

Gloves, gown, goggles, and mask as needed Signup and view all the answers

Why is microwave heating not recommended for liquids used on wounds?

It may lead to overheating the solution Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a wound is grossly contaminated?

Clean the wound at every dressing change. Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale for avoiding unnecessary cleaning of a wound that shows healthy granulation tissue?

It can delay wound healing by traumatizing delicate tissues. Signup and view all the answers

Which step is crucial when preparing for a dressing change to ensure privacy?

Provide privacy by exposing only the area to be treated. Signup and view all the answers

How should soiled dressings be disposed of during a dressing change?

In a cuffed plastic bag within reach. Signup and view all the answers

What materials should be prepared prior to cleaning a wound?

Cotton balls, gauze, sterile gloves, and adhesives. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct method to apply betadine when cleaning a wound?

Using a circular stroke with each swab. Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate action after assessing a wound?

Wash the wound and dry the skin around it. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to minimize infection while attending to a wound site?

Wear sterile gloves during wound cleaning and dressing. Signup and view all the answers

What technique is used to assess the depth of a wound?

Use a sterile applicator swab at the deepest part. Signup and view all the answers

When should gloves be worn during wound care?

When touching blood and bloody fluids, mucous membranes, or nonintact skin. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a factor to assess in pressure ulcers?

Presence of undermining or sinus tracts. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action after handling gloves that have been in contact with blood?

Wash hands thoroughly. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT part of standard precautions for wound care?

Changing dressings without gloves. Signup and view all the answers

For the assessment of wound size, which measurement should be taken?

Length, width, and depth in centimeters. Signup and view all the answers

Microwave therapy is commonly used in wound care for which purpose?

To promote healing by increasing blood flow. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper sequence for hand hygiene in wound care?

Cleanse hands before and after caring for wounds. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hand Hygiene and Preparation

Perform hand hygiene before and after caring for wounds to prevent infection.
Gather appropriate materials, particularly if the wound is contaminated.
Clean wounds during dressing changes when foreign material or necrotic tissues are present; repeated cleaning of clean wounds may delay healing.

Wound Assessment

Assess wounds for appearance, location, type, size, odor, and exudate amount.
Monitor sutured wounds to determine healing progress.
Ulcer locations related to bony prominences should be noted, including size measured in centimeters.

Cleaning Techniques

Use non-shedding gauze squares or nonwoven swabs for cleaning at accident scenes.
Clean wounds with isotonic saline or designated wound cleansers; avoid harsh antimicrobial solutions unless diluted.
Clean from the wound outward to prevent transferring bacteria from surrounding skin into the wound.

Infection Control Guidelines

Adhere to standard precautions such as wearing gloves when handling blood and bodily fluids.
Practice thorough hand cleansing if contaminated with fluids and after glove removal.
Use protective eyewear and masks as needed, especially in procedures with risk of splashing.

Dressing Procedures

Ensure patient privacy and comfort during wound care.
Use forceps for cleaning sponges to maintain sterility.
Maintain moisture in the wound by avoiding excessive drying post-cleaning.

Wound Management Rationale

Foreign bodies and devitalized tissue may lead to infection and delayed healing.
Cleaning wounds is essential to remove potentially harmful debris, but clean wounds may not require extensive cleaning.
Keeping solutions at body temperature during application optimizes healing and prevents lowering wound temperatures.

Clinical Practices

Follow a systematic approach to introducing self, identifying the patient, and explaining the procedure and its purpose.
Secure patient consent before proceeding with wound care.

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Description

Test your knowledge on wound care practices, including hand hygiene and cleaning techniques. This quiz covers key aspects of wound assessment, infection prevention, and appropriate materials for wound management. Perfect for healthcare professionals looking to enhance their skills.