Final answer:
For a Certified Patient Care Technician, replacing a dressing on a central line requires an aseptic dressing change due to the high risk of infection. Aseptic technique is essential in maintaining a sterile environment to prevent bacterial contamination and sepsis.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) must be knowledgeable about when an aseptic dressing change is required. In the scenarios listed, changing a bandage on a healed wound or covering a minor scrape with a sterile bandage generally do not require strict sterile technique. However, when replacing a dressing on a central line or applying a clean dressing to a fresh surgical incision, aseptic technique is critical to prevent infection. The correct answer is B) Replacing a dressing on a central line, which requires strict aseptic technique to prevent bacteria from entering the bloodstream and causing sepsis.
During medical procedures with a risk for contamination, maintaining a sterile field through proper aseptic technique is essential. The case of Barbara, the patient with a central venous catheter who developed an infection, illustrates the importance of sterilization and the use of aseptic technique in protecting patients from potential infections.
It is also crucial to monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, and pain after treating a cut or abrasion. Such symptoms may indicate improper care or the need for further medical attention to prevent complications.