An important consideration for the nurse when changing dressings ...

[nummyann]

An important consideration for the nurse when changing dressings and applying topical medication to a child's abdomen and leg burns is to:
 
  a. Apply topical medication with clean hands.
  b. Wash hands and forearms before and after dressing change.
  c. If dressings adhere to the wound, soak in hot water before removal.
  d. Apply dressing so that movement is limited during the healing process.

Question 2

An effective strategy to reduce the stress of burn dressing procedures is to:
 
  a. Give the child as many choices as possible.
  b. Reassure the child that dressing changes are not painful.
  c. Explain to the child why analgesics cannot be used.
  d. Encourage the child to master stress with controlled passivity.

[Li Jun]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Frequent hand and forearm washing is the single most important element of the infection control program. Topical medications should be applied with a tongue blade or gloved hand. Dressings that have adhered to the wound can be removed with tepid water or normal saline. Dressings are applied with sufficient tension to remain in place but not too tight to impair circulation or limit motion.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Children who have an understanding of the procedure and some perceived control demonstrate less maladaptive behavior. They respond well to participating in decisions and should be given as many choices as possible. The dressing-change procedure is very painful and stressful. The child should not be misinformed. Analgesia and sedation can and should be used. Encouraging the child to master stress with controlled passivity is not a positive coping strategy.

[nummyann]

Excellent

[cici]

TYSM