Infection prevention

Direct Observation
Aseptic technique & wound dressing
Introduction:
This direct observation was genuinely observed and supervised by my mentor, according to the guidance of Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC 2008). The aim of this essay is to analyse and to follow the procedures involved in a selected nursing skill. It will also help me with my comprehension of the steps related to this particular skill. I preferred to discuss how I performed this particular wound dressing. A simple wound was the principal object. My mentor and I have discussed about the subject of my direct observation and arise with the conclusion that a wound dressing would be the most appropriate. I had many opportunities to perform wound dressings under her supervision and guidance. That alone increased my confidence. During my placement and my searching for references about wounds I had the opportunity to come across various types of wounds and their classification. I have discovered how vast and broad the subject is. Although some of the wounds can be very complex I am concentrating on a simple wound for this direct observation. According to Dougherty & Lister (2008) there are many ways of classifying wounds. It can be classified by the process of healing (primary, secondary or tertiary), that was described by Miller & Dyson (1996). The amount of tissue loss according to Dealey (2005), also according to Dealey (2005) an acute and a chronic wound heal differently and that is another way of classifying it. As I gained sight in wound classification, I have realised its complexity and extensiveness. I have slightly touched the subject. I would like to introduce my patient for this direct observation. I am using a pseudonym in order to safeguard her identity. This is done to protect her confidentiality as affirmed by NMC (2008). Mrs. M is a 78 years old lady with continued admissions to hospitals due to frequent leg ulcers. Her leg ulcer is located in the inner part of her left