Final answer:
In the presence of a physician, a medical assistant is permitted to apply bandages, with the understanding that patient identity, procedural consent, and allergy awareness have been confirmed, and proper medical equipment is available. Monitoring for signs of infection in a bandaged wound is crucial and part of routine patient care.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, if a physician is present on the site, a medical assistant may apply bandages as part of basic wound care and management. It's essential that the patient's identity, the surgical site, and the procedure are verified, and consent for the intervention is obtained. Additionally, the entire team, including nurses, surgeons, and anesthesia professionals, should be aware of any known allergies and ensure proper functioning equipment is available before proceeding with any medical intervention.
It is especially important to watch for signs such as increased redness, swelling, and pain after a wound has been cleaned and bandaged because these can indicate an infection that may require further medical attention. As seen in the Clinical Focus examples when a wound appears red, feels warm or purulent, these may suggest a bacterial infection, prompting a healthcare provider to prescribe antibiotics and issue instructions for proper wound care, which includes keeping the wound clean and changing the dressing regularly. Therefore in the presence of a physician, a medical assistant can perform such duties as applying bandages observing for indications of complications, and assisting in maintaining patient safety and comfort during the medical care process.