Removing a Soiled Dressing and Applying a Clean, Dry Dressing

Material needed:

• Gauze dressing pad
• Tape
• Scissors
• Waterproof protector pad
• Tongs and spring clip clothespin
• Paper or plastic bag
• Disposable gloves

Procedure:

1. Explain what you are going to do
2. Wash your hands
3. Obtain materials listed above
4. Provide privacy (close door, pull curtains)
5. Cut length of tapes needed and hang them on edge of table for use later
6. Put on gloves

   Removing soiled dressing

7. Expose area where dressing is to be removed
8. Place paper or plastic bag nearby
9. Remove all tape from skin by pulling tape toward the dressing/wound
10. Gently remove soiled dressing using tongs or clothespin to grasp the edge. If tongs or clothespin is not available. Grasp the cleanest part of the dressing and remove. Inspect dressing and skin. Note color, amount of drainage, and odor. Discard into paper bag

    Applying clean, dry dressing

11. Remove clean, dry dressing from cover, touching the edge of the dressing only
12. Apply dressing to area
13. Take strips of precut tape and apply to secure dressing
14. Place dressing cover in paper bag and discard
15. Remove and discard gloves in paper or plastic bag
16. Wash your hands
17. Record what you have done. Report any abnormal conditions to the nurse or family member