Nursing Skills | Dressing Change Procedure

Dressing change procedures are essential for promoting wound healing, preventing infection, and maintaining patient comfort. Nurses begin by reviewing provider orders and assessing the wound for size, depth, drainage, odor, and surrounding skin condition. Proper hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment are mandatory. Depending on the wound type, sterile or clean technique may be required. The nurse carefully removes the old dressing, noting drainage characteristics, and cleanses the wound using appropriate solutions such as saline. New dressings are applied according to wound needs—options include gauze, foam, hydrocolloid, or antimicrobial dressings. Pain management is important, as dressing changes can be uncomfortable. Nurses educate patients on signs of infection and proper wound care at home. Documentation includes wound assessment, dressing type, patient tolerance, and any changes in condition.

Hints About Wound Assessment

Evaluating drainage, size, and tissue appearance.

Tips About Sterile Technique

Maintaining sterility prevents contamination.

Facts About Pain Management

Providing comfort during dressing changes.