When should a dressing on a postoperative patient be changed?

Changing a dressing on a postoperative patient is primarily determined by the condition of the dressing and the wound itself rather than a specific schedule or patient request. The correct choice emphasizes that a dressing should be changed when it becomes wet, soiled, or based on established facility policies.

Wet or soiled dressings can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of infection, which is particularly concerning in the postoperative period when wounds are healing. Adhering to facility protocols ensures that care is consistent, standardized, and based on the best practices for wound management and healing. This approach allows healthcare providers to monitor the wound for signs of infection or complications closely.

While patient requests and routine timing may seem reasonable, they do not take precedence over the clinical assessment of the wound. Similarly, relying solely on a doctor's order can lead to delays in intervention, which might compromise patient outcomes. Thus, the correct answer aligns with a proactive and evidence-based approach to postoperative care.