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Which of the following basic wound care instructions should a medical assistant provide to a patient following a minor office surgery with sutures

Rationale

Call the office if redness develops around the operative site.

Monitoring for signs of infection is crucial after surgery, and redness around the operative site can indicate such a complication. A medical assistant should instruct the patient to report any concerning symptoms, as early intervention can prevent more serious issues.

A (Irrigate the closed wound regularly with normal saline.) YOUR ANSWER

Irrigating a closed wound with normal saline is generally not recommended as routine care because it can disrupt the healing process and introduce bacteria. Closed wounds should be kept dry and intact unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.

C (Apply heat to the area to reduce pain.) YOUR ANSWER

Applying heat to a postoperative area can exacerbate swelling and increase the risk of infection. Instead, cold therapy is typically recommended to help reduce pain and inflammation during the initial recovery period.

D (Expect to have a fever postoperatively.) YOUR ANSWER

While a mild fever can occur postoperatively due to the body’s natural response to surgery, it should not be expected as a normal outcome. Significant or persistent fever may indicate an infection, and patients should be advised to report such symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

After minor office surgery, patients must be informed of the importance of monitoring their surgical site for signs of infection, such as redness. Among the options provided, advising to call the office if redness develops is the most appropriate instruction, ensuring that any complications can be addressed promptly. Other choices either promote unsafe practices or misunderstandings about normal postoperative expectations.

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