How Do You Change Surgical Dressings?

Surgical dressings should be changed when they become wet from blood or other fluids or as directed by your doctor or nurse. The original dressing may be left in place for up to two days if it remains dry.

Changing a surgical dressing is a crucial part of wound care. Here’s a general guide; however, always follow your doctor’s specific instructions, as procedures can vary based on the type of surgery and wound:

Preparing for the Dressing Change

1. Gather Supplies: You will typically need:

   • New sterile dressing (gauze pads, non-stick pads)
   • Sterile saline solution (if instructed to clean the wound)
   • Medical tape or dressing adhesive
   • Clean gloves (sterile if you are able, otherwise clean gloves will suffice)
   • Clean towel or drape to create a sterile field

2. Prepare Your Workspace:

   • Choose a clean, well-lit area.
   • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean paper towel.
   • Open the sterile supplies carefully, avoiding contamination.

Removing the Old Dressing

1. Put on Gloves: Put on your clean gloves.
2. Carefully Remove the Dressing:
   • Gently loosen the tape securing the dressing. If the dressing sticks to the wound, moisten it with sterile saline solution to ease removal and prevent further injury.
   • Remove the dressing slowly and carefully.
3. Dispose of the Old Dressing: Place the used dressing in a biohazard waste container or a sealed plastic bag.
4. Remove Gloves and Wash Hands: Remove your gloves and wash your hands again thoroughly.

Assessing and Cleaning the Wound

1. Put on New Gloves: Put on a new pair of clean gloves (sterile gloves are preferable).

2. Assess the Wound: Observe the wound for signs of infection, such as:

   • Increased redness
   • Swelling
   • Pus or discharge
   • Increased pain
   • Foul odor
   • If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor immediately.

3. Clean the Wound (if instructed):

   • If your doctor has instructed you to clean the wound, gently irrigate it with sterile saline solution. Use a sterile gauze pad to pat the area dry gently.
   • Avoid using antiseptic creams or ointments unless specifically prescribed by your doctor.

Applying the New Dressing

1. Apply New Dressing:
   • Place a sterile non-stick pad directly over the wound.
   • Cover the non-stick pad with sterile gauze pads if needed, to absorb any drainage.
2. Secure the Dressing:
   • Use medical tape or dressing adhesive to secure the dressing in place. Ensure that the tape does not directly touch the wound.
   • The dressing should be snug enough to stay in place but not so tight that it restricts circulation.

Final Steps

1. Dispose of Waste: Properly dispose of all used supplies.
2. Wash Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly.
3. Document: Note the date and time of the dressing change. Also, note any observations about the wound's appearance and any drainage.
4. Follow-up: Adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions regarding future dressing changes and follow-up appointments.

Important Considerations:

• Sterility: Maintain a sterile environment as much as possible to prevent infection.
• Pain Management: If you experience pain during the dressing change, take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to tape or dressing materials.
• Contact Your Doctor: If you have any concerns or notice signs of infection, contact your doctor immediately.

By following these steps and your doctor's specific instructions, you can effectively change surgical dressings and promote proper wound healing.