Identify the protocol for wound dressing changes.

The protocol for wound dressing changes emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and proper assessment to promote healing and prevent infection. Cleaning the wound site is essential to remove any debris, bacteria, or exudate that may have accumulated. This step significantly reduces the risk of infection, which can complicate recovery.

After cleaning the wound, it’s crucial to assess it for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. This assessment helps in determining the appropriate course of action moving forward, whether it requires further medical intervention or if it is healing as expected.

Applying a new, sterile dressing serves to protect the wound from external contaminants and further injury while keeping the area moist, which can facilitate the healing process. A sterile dressing also provides a barrier against bacteria, thus reducing the risk of infection.

In contrast, other options present methods that either do not adequately address the need for cleanliness and protection or may actually hinder healing.