1. Objective

To ensure consistent, sterile, and effective wound care through proper dressing techniques, promoting wound healing, and preventing infection.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to all licensed healthcare professionals providing wound dressing services under Upashay’s doctor services. It is intended for the dressing of non-surgical wounds, minor post-surgical wounds, and wounds that do not require immediate hospital intervention.

3. Required Personnel

  • Licensed doctor or registered nurse trained in wound care and dressing procedures

4. Required Equipment and Supplies

  • Sterile gloves
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE): mask, face shield, gown
  • Sterile wound dressing kit (includes gauze pads, cotton swabs, bandages)
  • Antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine or iodine)
  • Sterile saline or wound-cleansing solution
  • Adhesive tape or wound-closure strips
  • Absorbent wound dressing (foam, hydrocolloid, or alginate as appropriate)
  • Scissors (sterile)
  • Waste disposal bags (for biohazard materials)

5. Pre-Procedure Preparation

  1. Patient Assessment
    • Review the patient’s medical history, including any known allergies, wound history, and previous treatments.
    • Assess the wound for size, depth, color, drainage, odor, and signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, or pain).
    • Explain the procedure to the patient, discussing any expected discomfort, and obtain informed consent.
  2. Environment Preparation
    • Ensure a clean and well-lit environment to minimize infection risks.
    • Gather all necessary supplies within easy reach before beginning the procedure.
    • Position the patient comfortably, with the wound site easily accessible.
  3. Hand Hygiene and PPE
    • Perform thorough hand hygiene before putting on sterile gloves.
    • Wear appropriate PPE, including a mask, face shield, and sterile gloves, to protect the patient and healthcare provider.

6. Procedure Steps

  1. Remove the Old Dressing
    • Gently remove the old dressing, taking care not to disturb healing tissue or damage the wound bed.
    • Dispose of the used dressing materials in a biohazard bag.
    • Assess the wound again for any changes since the last dressing change (e.g., increased drainage, redness, or odor).
  2. Clean the Wound
    • Cleanse the wound with sterile saline or a wound-cleansing solution using gauze pads or cotton swabs. Use a gentle, patting motion and avoid rubbing the wound bed.
    • Apply an antiseptic solution around the wound (not directly in the wound) to reduce bacteria on surrounding skin.
    • Allow the area to air dry or gently pat dry with sterile gauze.
  3. Inspect the Wound
    • Assess the wound bed for signs of healing, infection, and the presence of granulation tissue.
    • Document the wound’s appearance, size, and any signs of infection or necrotic tissue.
  4. Apply the New Dressing
    • Choose the appropriate dressing type (e.g., foam, hydrocolloid, or alginate) based on wound condition (e.g., dry, exuding, or infected).
    • Place the sterile dressing over the wound, covering it entirely while allowing for sufficient airflow around the edges.
    • If needed, secure the dressing with adhesive tape or wound-closure strips, ensuring it stays in place without restricting circulation.
  5. Dispose of Used Materials
    • Place all used materials, including gloves, gauze, and dressings, into a biohazard disposal bag.
    • Perform hand hygiene thoroughly after removing gloves.

7. Post-Procedure Care

  1. Patient Education
    • Instruct the patient on keeping the wound clean and dry, recognizing signs of infection, and reporting any increased pain, redness, or swelling.
    • Advise on activity restrictions if necessary, and the importance of follow-up dressing changes for ongoing wound care.
  2. Documentation
    • Document the procedure, including the wound’s condition, dressing type used, patient response, and any signs of infection.
    • Record any instructions provided to the patient regarding wound care and follow-up appointments.

8. Emergency Protocols

  • Be prepared to provide immediate care if the wound begins to bleed heavily, shows signs of serious infection, or if the patient experiences pain or discomfort beyond typical levels.
  • Refer the patient to a hospital or specialized wound care if necessary.

9. Quality Assurance and Safety Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with all infection control standards and wound care guidelines.
  • Regularly review wound dressing procedures with healthcare staff to improve quality and address any safety concerns.