A nurse is preparing nasopharyngeal suctioning for an adult client. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use?

A) Wear sterile gloves to remove the dressing: For a wet-to-dry dressing change, clean gloves are typically used when removing the dressing, as the procedure does not require a sterile technique unless the wound is being directly cleaned or treated with sterile instruments. Wearing sterile gloves for removal is unnecessary and could increase the risk of contamination when handling non-sterile dressing material.

B) Remove the tape by pulling from the center of the dressing: Tape should be removed by pulling it gently from the edges rather than from the center. Pulling from the center may cause unnecessary trauma to the surrounding skin or disrupt the wound's healing process. Gently pulling from the edges helps reduce the risk of skin irritation and minimizes discomfort for the patient.

C) Moisten dressing before removal: The dressing should be moistened before application, not before removal. Wetting the dressing before removing it may actually cause further trauma to the wound, and it might be difficult to remove the wet-to-dry dressing cleanly. The dressing should be removed first, and then a new dressing should be moistened if needed.

D) Clean the wound from the center to the outer edges: When cleaning a wound, the nurse should always clean from the center of the wound to the outer edges in a circular motion. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria from the outer contaminated areas into the clean tissue. By cleaning from the center outward, the nurse reduces the risk of introducing new bacteria into the wound site.

A) Administer aspirin for pain: Aspirin is an anticoagulant and should be avoided in clients receiving other anticoagulant therapy, especially in the context of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Using aspirin could increase the risk of bleeding and complications. Therefore, it is not appropriate for pain management in this situation.

B) Initiate bed rest: While rest may be indicated for comfort and to reduce the risk of further clot formation, complete bed rest is generally not recommended in the management of DVT unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider. Early ambulation and the use of compression devices or stockings are typically encouraged to promote circulation and reduce the risk of complications, such as pulmonary embolism.

C) Massage the affected extremity every 4 hr: Massaging the affected extremity is contraindicated in a client with DVT, as it can dislodge the clot and increase the risk of a pulmonary embolism or other complications. It is important to avoid any direct manipulation of the affected limb to prevent causing harm.

D) Apply an ice pack to the affected extremity for 20 min every 2 hr: Applying an ice pack is
an appropriate intervention for reducing swelling and providing comfort in the case of a DVT. The cold therapy helps to constrict blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. This intervention should be done carefully to avoid skin damage, and the nurse should monitor the skin for signs of injury.