NCLEX: After implementing a dressing change, the wound remains red with moderate serous drainage and the client reports…

Nursing fundamentals Basic Care and Comfort Safety and Infection Prevention and Control

Case Study

After implementing a dressing change, the wound remains red with moderate serous drainage and the client reports pain 6/10. What is the nurse's next step?

Question

A. Reassess the wound and pain, compare with expected outcomes, and revise the plan if needed.
B. Document success and close the nursing diagnosis without reassessment.
C. Discharge the client because the dressing change was completed.
D. Apply the same dressing for one week without further assessment.

Rationale

Correct answer: A. Reassess the wound and pain, compare with expected outcomes, and revise the plan if needed.

Rationale: Evaluation is reassessing outcomes after intervention; ongoing pain and drainage may require plan revision.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Nursing process