Surgical Technology And Patient Care Fundamentals Practice Test

How should dressings be applied and when are they typically removed?

Dressings should be sterile and applied to protect the wound, absorb drainage, and prevent infection; removal is per surgeon's orders, often within 24-48 hours or later. Dressings should be applied non-sterile and removed after 1 week. Dressings should be left in place until fully healed, never removed. Dressings are optional if the wound is clean.

Correct Answer:

Dressings should be sterile and applied to protect the wound, absorb drainage, and prevent infection; removal is per surgeon's orders, often within 24-48 hours or later.

Explanation:

Dressings are applied with sterile technique to protect the wound, absorb drainage, and reduce infection risk, helping maintain an environment that supports healing. The timing of removal follows the surgeon’s orders and the wound’s drainage and moisture needs, typically within 24 to 48 hours but possibly longer if drainage persists or healing requires continued protection. This approach prioritizes keeping the wound clean and protected while allowing regular assessment and care adjustments. Dressings should not be non-sterile, nor left on for a fixed long period without reassessment, and they aren’t optional when a wound needs protection and drainage management.

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