The nurse is preparing discharge instructions for a client with an open surgical wound. Which instructions are important for the nurse to include for this client?

Question

Select all that apply.
A) Apply lubricating lotion to the edges of the wound.
B) Notify your doctor if you notice edema, heat, or tenderness at the wound site.
C) Thoroughly irrigate the wound with hydrogen peroxide.
D) Wash hands before and after changing the surgical dressing.
E) Adjust your diet to increase the amount of protein.

Answer 1

Answer: B, D, E

A client being discharged with an open surgical wound has to be instructed on the detection of infection because the skin is the first line of defense. Signs such as edema, heat, and tenderness would indicate a local infection and should be reported to the healthcare provider. Increasing protein in the diet will help to enhance wound healing. Hand hygiene before and after dressing changes is essential to decrease the risk of a wound infection. Applying lubricating lotion to the edges of a wound would impede the healing process. Irrigating with hydrogen peroxide would break down good granulating tissue, so this also would not increase healing.