Question

Holding the syringe tip 2.5 cm above the wound prevents syringe contamination in a wound with a wide opening. Using a 35-mL syringe provides proper flushing of the wound. Using a 19-gauge angiocatheter allows the direct flow of irrigant fluid into the wound. Inserting the tip of the catheter into a wound with a small opening and pulling it out about 1 cm keeps the tip from touching the fragile inner walls.

a. Holding the syringe tip prevents proper flushing
b. Using a 25-mL syringe is ideal for wound irrigation
c. Using a 19-gauge angiocatheter is ineffective
d. Inserting the tip prevents contamination

Answer 1

To prevent syringe contamination during wound irrigation, keep the syringe tip above the wound, use an adequate volume syringe for flushing, and a 19-gauge angiocatheter to effectively direct fluid flow while avoiding contact with delicate wound surfaces.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best approach for preventing syringe contamination during wound irrigation is to ensure that the syringe tip does not directly contact the wound's interior. Holding the syringe tip 2.5 cm above a wound with a wide opening can effectively prevent contamination by protecting against direct contact with potentially unsterile surfaces. Using a 35-mL syringe is recommended to deliver adequate volume and pressure for flushing out a wound. Employing a 19-gauge angiocatheter is suitable for directing the flow of irrigant fluid into the wound effectively due to its size, and for wounds with small openings, inserting the catheter's tip and then withdrawing it slightly avoids touching the wound's fragile inner walls, thus preventing contamination. These practices are consistent with aseptic techniques used during medical procedures to maintain the sterility of tools and the safety of the patient.