Question

The nurse is irrigating a deep wound with a small opening. In which order should the following actions be performed?

1. Insert the tip of the catheter into the wound.
2. Pull out the catheter about 1 cm.
3. Fill the syringe, and attach it to the catheter.
4. Pinch off the catheter just below the syringe.
5. Observe for the presence of debris in the collection basin.
6. Flush the wound using slow and continuous pressure.

Answer 1

The correct order for the actions involved in irrigating a deep wound with a small opening are: 1) Fill syringe and attach catheter, 2) Insert catheter tip, 3) Pull catheter out slightly, 4) Flush wound, 5) Pinch off catheter, and 6) Observe for debris. Aseptic technique is paramount to prevent infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student is asking about the steps a nurse should follow when irrigating a deep wound with a small opening. The order of actions is important because proper technique can help minimize further contamination and promote wound healing. Here is the correct sequence for the procedure:

1. Fill the syringe, and attach it to the catheter.
2. Insert the tip of the catheter into the wound.
3. Pull out the catheter about 1 cm.
4. Flush the wound using slow and continuous pressure.
5. Pinch off the catheter just below the syringe.
6. Observe for the presence of debris in the collection basin.

During these procedures, maintaining aseptic technique is crucial to prevent infections. For example, tubes or bottles should be held at an angle during transfer, and the opening passed briefly through a flame to reduce contamination. This practice is similar to how proper handling and pipette technique are taught in a laboratory setting to ensure safe and sterile transfer of liquids.