A nurse is evaluating a patient’s sensory function.
Which of the following sensory stimuli is primarily associated with the tactile system?

Choice A rationale

Discarding the dressing in the bedside trash receptacle is not recommended because it can lead to the spread of infection. The dressing is contaminated with blood and purulent drainage, which are considered biohazardous waste.

Choice B rationale

Double-bagging the dressing in clear bags and labeling it “biohazard” is not sufficient. While it’s important to label biohazardous waste, the dressing should be disposed of in a designated biohazardous waste container.

Choice C rationale

Enclosing the dressing in a single clear plastic bag and discarding it in the bedside trash receptacle is also not recommended. This method does not provide adequate containment for biohazardous waste.

Choice D rationale

Disposing of the dressing in a biohazardous waste container is the correct method. This ensures that the biohazardous waste is properly contained and reduces the risk of spreading infection.

Choice A rationale

Purulent drainage is thick and opaque. It can have a yellow, tan, green, or brown color and is a sign of infection.

Choice B rationale

Sanguineous drainage is bright red and indicates active bleeding3.

Choice C rationale

Serosanguineous drainage is typically pink-red and thin. It is made up of blood and serous fluid and is typically seen in a normal, non-infected wound3.

Choice D rationale

Serous drainage is clear and thin, like the fluid from a blister3.