Author(s): Kathy McLaughlin, DNP, RN, CWOCN
The goal of wound cleaning is to remove debris and contaminants from the wound without damaging healthy tissue. After an initial cleaning, wounds should be cleaned before a new dressing is applied and as needed.
Step by step
As you follow these steps, be sure to observe standard precautions. Follow facility protocols regarding use of clean or sterile technique.
- Remove the soiled dressing.
Put on clean gloves. Roll or lift an edge of the dressing, and then gently remove it while supporting the surrounding skin. When possible, remove the dressing in the direction of hair growth.
- Inspect the dressing and wound.
Note the color, amount, and odor of drainage and necrotic debris.
- Clean the wound.
Moisten gauze pads either by dipping the pads in wound cleaning solution and wringing out excess or by using a spray bottle to apply solution to the gauze.
- Dry the wound.
Using the same procedure as for cleaning a wound, dry the wound using dry gauze pads; pat dry; do not rub. - Reassess the condition of the skin and wound.
Note the character of the clean wound bed and surrounding skin.Wound reassessment algorithm
- Remove soiled gloves, and replace. Dress the wound, filling dead space if indicated, as ordered.
Cleaning techniques
To clean a linear-shaped wound (such as an incision), gently wipe from top to bottom in one motion, starting directly over the wound and moving outward, as shown below.
For an open wound (such as a pressure injury/ulcer), gently wipe in concentric circles, starting directly over the wound and moving outward, as shown below.
Choosing a cleaning agent
The type of cleaning agent you'll use on a wound depends on the wound type and characteristics.
Types of antiseptic solutions
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