The nurse is caring for a patient who underwent a fasciotomy for the treatment of compartment syndrome. Which type of dressing should the nurse prepare to cover the site?
Explanation
• Fasciotomy sites are left open in the immediate postoperative period to allow assessment of tissue viability and pressure release.
• Sterile saline-soaked gauze
• Silver-based dressings are commonly used for burn wounds. Less extensive burns can be covered with Vaseline gauze and bacitracin.
• Betadine-soaked dressings are not commonly used for wound management.