Question

A postoperative client has a large amount of serosanguineous drainage on the surgical dressing and the nurse notes that the operative report Indicates that the client has a Penrose drain near the incision. What intervention should the nurse implement when changing the client's dressing?

a. Place sterile gauze dressings under the Penrose drain.
b. Apply sterile gloves before removing the soil dressing.
c. Cover the Penrose drain with a saline moistened gauze.
d. Wear a face mask or shield during the dressing change.

Answer 1

When changing the client's dressing with a Penrose drain, the nurse should cover the drain with a saline moistened gauze. Sterile gloves should be worn and a face mask or shield should be used for protection.

Step-by-step explanation:

When changing the client's dressing with a Penrose drain, the nurse should follow the intervention of covering the Penrose drain with a saline moistened gauze. This helps to keep the drain clean and prevent infection. Sterile gauze dressings should not be placed under the Penrose drain as it may interfere with its function. Applying sterile gloves before removing the soiled dressing is also necessary to maintain proper hygiene. Wearing a face mask or shield during the dressing change is important to protect against potential infectious material.