wound irrigation, the rinsing of a wound or the cavity formed by a wound using a medicated solution, water, or saline, or an antimicrobial liquid preparation. ▪ METHOD: A sterile irrigating solution is poured into a sterile bowl. It is then warmed in a basin of warm water unless the solution’s action depends on antibiotic or enzyme activity, which would be inhibited by warming. An emesis or kidney basin is then fitted snugly against the patient’s body beneath the wound. It may be held in place by the patient or by an assistant. A catheter is held with sterile gloves or forceps and gently inserted into the wound to a prescribed depth and at a prescribed angle. A syringe filled with irrigating solution is then attached to the catheter, and the solution is gently instilled. The catheter is pinched before the empty syringe is removed to prevent aspiration of the return irrigation flow during disconnection. The syringe is filled and attached again, and the wound is irrigated until the returning solution runs clear. If a catheter is not used, the solution is sprayed directly on the wound from the syringe until the wound looks clean. After irrigation is completed, the body area is dried with sterile sponges working from the wound out to the area around it, and a dry sterile dressing is applied. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Frequency of irrigation, type of solution, and amount of solution to be used are specifically prescribed. The condition of the wound, amount of irrigating solution used, and appearance of the returned solution should be documented.
