Care Of Dressings & Bandages - Key Notes

Arlo Guthrie — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:44:23 GMT

Current Revision posted to Revision Guide For Student Nurses - Part 2 by Arlo Guthrie on 4/21/2009 9:44:23 AM

This is an example of a client information sheet that may be useful when discharging a patient with a dressing.

Patient………………………………… Date………………………..

All bandages and dressings must be checked regularly at the surgery so please keep re-examination appointments.

PLEASE ENSURE THAT:
Dressings are kept clean and dry. If you wish to take your pet outside, bandages covering the foot should be protected by a plastic bag. The bag must be removed as soon as your pet returns indoors to prevent the foot from sweating and the dressing becoming wet.

CONTACT THE SURGERY IF:
Your pet is interfering with its dressing/bandage.
The area around the dressing is swollen.
The area around the dressing is red or sore.
Toes exposed from the dressing feel cold.
An unpleasant odour emanates from the dressing.
The dressing gets wet.
The dressing appears to be slipping or chafing.
Areas of discharge or blood are evident on or around the dressing.
Your pet appears uncomfortable.

IN AN EMERGENCY - Once home, if worried, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Your pet requires an examination in ……… days time. Please ensure that you have made an appointment.

Stitches are due to be removed in ……… days time.