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 are used to allow frequent wound assessment. After 24 to 48 hours, negative pressure wound therapy can be used

• Silver-based dressings are commonly used for burn wounds. Less extensive burns can be covered with Vaseline gauze and bacitracin

• Betadine-soaked dressings are no commonly used for wound management

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