Wound Assessment |
Dressing Changes |
Wound assessment includes visualization of the wound and surrounding tissues. A tactile assessment of the surrounding tissues will also be performed.
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You are the teacher
Once a plan is in place for treating the patient's wound, it may be necessary for the bedside RN to do the dressing changes. If the patient is being discharged from the hospital the patient's family may be changing the dressing and caring for the wound at home. Provide the family with:
Get in the habit of teaching as you go
- Detailed instructions on care of the specific wound
- Dressing supplies (just enough to get them through until the next out patient appointment; they do not need excess)
- Any handouts or other resources that may be helpful
- Contact information for the Wound/ ET Team
Get in the habit of teaching as you go