Question

A nurse is observing a new nurse perform a sterile dressing change on a client who has a central cath. Which of the following actions should the new nurse take?

A. open the top flap of the sterile package towards the body
B. maintain a 1.25 cm border around the edges of the sterile field
C. pick up the first sterile glove by grasping the folding cuff edge
D. remove soiled dressings using sterile gloves

Answer 1

The new nurse maintaining a sterile dressing change should maintain a 1.25 cm non-sterile border, grasp the first sterile glove by the folded cuff edge, and remove soiled dressings with clean gloves before applying the new dressing with sterile gloves to maintain aseptic technique and prevent sepsis.

Step-by-step explanation:

To ensure sterile technique during a dressing change for a central venous catheter (central cath), the new nurse should take the following actions:

• Maintain a 1.25 cm border around the edges of the sterile field, which is considered the non-sterile area.
• Pick up the first sterile glove by grasping the folded cuff edge, ensuring that hand contact is only with the sterile interior surface of the glove to prevent contamination.
• Remove soiled dressings using clean but not necessarily sterile gloves, as the goal here is to avoid the spread of infection or contaminants. After removal, proper hand hygiene and application of sterile gloves are necessary for the placement of new dressing to maintain aseptic technique.

Ensuring correct procedure and technique is crucial for preventing sepsis and other potential complications associated with a contaminated sterile field.