Final answer:
The nurse should use sterile technique and wash hands before changing surgical dressings, rather than layering new dressings over old ones or waiting until saturation. It's important to clean the incision with appropriate antiseptics rather than using harsh substances, following established aseptic practices to prevent sepsis.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is replacing surgical dressings on a patient who had abdominal surgery, the most appropriate action to take is to use sterile technique and wash hands before changing the dressing. This ensures that no additional bacteria are introduced to the wound, potentially causing an infection. It is not advisable to apply a new dressing over the old one or to wait until the dressing is completely saturated with drainage before changing it, as this can increase the risk of infection.
Cleaning the incision site is also crucial, but it should be done with careful consideration of the appropriate antiseptic solution, as harsh agents like hydrogen peroxide can sometimes damage the tissue and impair healing. Instead, a more gentle antiseptic solution or saline is often recommended unless specific instructions are given by the healthcare provider. Maintaining a sterile field and practicing aseptic technique is critical to prevent sepsis and ensure proper wound healing, following the principles established by pioneers like Joseph Lister.