What actions should be taken if dehiscence or evisceration occurs after surgery?

What actions should be taken if dehiscence or evisceration occurs after surgery?

• A. Cover exposed tissues with sterile saline–soaked gauze
• B. Massage the wound and disturb the area
• C. Move the patient to ambulate quickly
• D. Provide a large meal

Answer: (A)

When there is wound dehiscence or organs protruding (evisceration), the priority is to protect exposed tissue and prevent infection while awaiting surgical care. The best immediate action is to cover the exposed tissues with a sterile gauze pad that is moist with sterile saline. This keeps tissues moist, minimizes contamination, and helps prevent further injury. Do not massage or manipulate the wound, do not attempt to push the organs back in, and avoid moving the patient or giving a large meal. Keep the patient lying flat with minimal activity (often with knees bent to reduce abdominal pressure) and notify the surgeon right away, while continuing to monitor vital signs and maintain IV access.

When there is wound dehiscence or organs protruding (evisceration), the priority is to protect exposed tissue and prevent infection while awaiting surgical care. The best immediate action is to cover the exposed tissues with a sterile gauze pad that is moist with sterile saline. This keeps tissues moist, minimizes contamination, and helps prevent further injury. Do not massage or manipulate the wound, do not attempt to push the organs back in, and avoid moving the patient or giving a large meal. Keep the patient lying flat with minimal activity (often with knees bent to reduce abdominal pressure) and notify the surgeon right away, while continuing to monitor vital signs and maintain IV access.