In terms of wound care, what should you prioritize after removing a dressing?

Prioritizing hand hygiene and the application of gloves after removing a dressing is crucial in wound care for several reasons. First, maintaining infection control is a top priority in any healthcare setting. When you remove a dressing, you may be exposed to bodily fluids, which can contain pathogens. By performing hand hygiene and putting on gloves, you are significantly reducing the risk of contaminating the wound and yourself.

Additionally, this practice ensures that you create a safe environment for further wound assessment and care. Proper hand hygiene prevents the transmission of infections not only to the patient but also protects other patients and healthcare staff in the facility.

While communication with the patient, obtaining a new dressing, and documentation are all important steps in the wound care process, they should come after ensuring that you are practicing safe and sterile techniques. Hand hygiene and gloving serve as the foundational steps that set the stage for all other wound care actions.