A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has an infected wound with significant exudate.
Which of the following dressings should the nurse plan to cover the client's wound?

Choice A rationale:

Refraining from touching the drainage spout with the hand is a correct practice. This helps to prevent contamination of the drain.

Choice B rationale:

Using one alcohol wipe to clean both the spout and the plug is incorrect. Each part should be cleaned with a separate alcohol wipe to prevent cross-contamination.

Choice C rationale:

Pointing the device away from oneself while opening it is a correct practice. This helps to prevent accidental exposure to the drainage fluid.

Choice D rationale:

Compressing the device in the hand before closing is a correct practice. This helps to maintain the suction in the drain.

Choice A rationale:

Wrapping the dressing in a clear plastic bag and discarding it in the bedside trash receptacle is incorrect because it does not follow proper biohazardous waste disposal protocols.

Choice B rationale:

Double bagging the dressing, labeling it “biohazard,” and sending it for decontamination is incorrect because it is not the standard procedure for disposing of soiled dressings.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the dressing in a biohazardous waste container is the correct method for disposing of soiled dressings.

Choice D rationale:

Discarding the dressing in the bedside trash receptacle is incorrect because it does not follow proper biohazardous waste disposal protocols.