Should you wear a mask to change an infected wound dressing in the abdominal region? ?

Question

Whether it's to protect yourself or the patient?

Answer 1

I conducted a research on your question and there is a medical handbook that shows procedures on handling different situations and the types. It stated that when changing wound dressing of areas dealing with abdominal, chest, head, that it's recommended to wear protective gowns, gloves and possibilities of a mask due to if blood were to some how squirt in someway the nurse or physician is protected. Depending on the seriousness of the wound. It stated it protects against the blood disease known as hepatitis B.

Transmission results from exposure to infectious blood or body fluids containing blood. Possible forms of transmission include (but are not limited to) unprotected sexual contact, blood transfusions, re-use of contaminated needles & syringes, and vertical transmission from mother to child during childbirth.

Answer 2

Suit up. It is best to protect you and the patient.  

Answer 3

probably not necessary unless you have something that may be spread to the patient, if the dressing change is sterile however, it would be necessary to maintain a sterile area.  infection of wounds usually requires contact transmission of bacteria making gloves and good handwashing a must, disposable gowns are good also, so there is no transfer to clothing in case soiled dressing or anything were to come in contact with the person changing the dressing.  

Answer 4

Not under normal circumstances. If the patient is known to have an infectious disease or if their immune system is so compromised then yes. these patients would be in isolation not amongst the rest of the patients.