Question

A newly registered nurse is tasked by the nurse educator to do a wet-to-dry dressing change on a stage 3 pressure ulcer. Which of the following actions would indicate to the nurse that the LPN is observing proper technique?

A) Applying a dry sterile dressing
B) Moistening the dressing with saline
C) Using a non-adherent dressing
D) Packing the wound tightly

Answer 1

Proper technique for a wet-to-dry dressing change on a stage 3 pressure ulcer involves moistening the dressing with normal saline, lightly packing the wound, and covering with a secondary dressing. The RN must also ensure correct labeling and recording of the procedure, as well as the proper function of equipment.

Step-by-step explanation:

A newly registered nurse (RN) applying wet-to-dry dressing change technique to a stage 3 pressure ulcer would indicate proper technique by moistening the dressing with saline. Wet-to-dry dressings help debride the wound when the wet dressing, which is moistened with normal saline, dries and adheres to the wound tissue. As the dressing is removed, it debrides the wound by pulling away dead tissue. It is important to note that the wound should not be packed too tightly as this could cause damage to healthy tissue and impair blood circulation, potentially leading to further complications.

Proper technique includes moistening the gauze with normal saline, lightly packing the wound to the level of the surrounding skin, and covering it with a secondary dressing. The nurse should also ensure that all equipment to be used in the procedure is working properly, that the procedure name is recorded correctly, and that, if any specimen is collected from the wound, it is correctly labeled with the patient's name and other relevant information.