(11)
Record procedure and report significant observation to the Charge
Nurse.
(a)
Type of wound catheter and suction.
(b)
Amount, color, characteristics, and odor of drainage.
(c)
The patient's reaction to the procedure.
(d)
Function of suction system.
(e)
Any observations of the wound area or dressing.
(f)
All patient teaching done and the patient's apparent level of
understanding.
c.
Remove Sutures from a Postoperative Patient's Surgical Wound. The
nurse must avoid introduction of skin surface contaminants into wound site and
interference with wound healing. He must also avoid causing unnecessary
pain/discomfort for the patient.
(1)
Verify the physician's order.
(2)
Wash hands and assemble needed equipment.
(a)
Prepackaged suture removal supplies/equipment.
(b)
Antiseptic pledgets.
(c)
Smooth forceps.
(d)
Scissors
(e)
(f)
(3)
Identify and approach the patient, explain what you are going to do,
(4)
Remove the patient's wound dressing to expose suture line.
(5)
Cleanse the stitch area carefully and thoroughly with hydrogen
peroxide.
MD0915
4-23