(Please select only one answer for each of the following questions)
1. After removing the sutures from a patient’s abdominal surgical wound, the nurse notices areas of wound separation. What action should the nurse take? Go to
Question 2
A. Have the practitioner resuture the site.
B. Place tape over the incisional opening.
C. Apply wound closure strips across the incision.
D. Reinforce the site with a gauze dressing.
2. The practitioner has ordered suture removal on day 7 after surgery. The nurse assesses the wound in preparation for suture removal; the site is seeping yellow exudate. What should the nurse do next? Go to
Question 3
A. Remove the sutures, apply wound closure strips, and document the condition of the wound.
B. Leave the sutures intact and notify the practitioner about the condition of the wound.
C. Remove the sutures as the practitioner has ordered and notify the practitioner about the condition of the wound.
D. Remove every other suture to decrease the chance of dehiscence.
3. After removing the sutures from a patient’s surgical wound, what step should the nurse take next? Go to
Question 4
A. Assess the site for remaining portions of suture.
B. Apply a sterile dressing.
C. Clean the site with an antiseptic swab.
D. Immediately apply wound closure strips across the suture line.
4. Which statement describes the timing of staple or suture removal? Go to
Question 5
A. Most staples and sutures are removed within 5 days after placement.
B. Removal is based on the stage of healing and the extent and location of the surgery.
C. Retention sutures are removed within 2 weeks after placement.
D. Sutures or staples should remain in place for 2 weeks to ensure complete healing of the incision.
5. During suture removal, what should the nurse do? Back to Top
A. Delay suture removal when noting suture line separation and delayed healing.
B. Snip each end of the suture for patient comfort.
C. Remove small stitches noted in the tissue below the suture line.
D. Place the forceps on the skin next to the incision line to stabilize the skin surface.