Which of the following should a preoperative nurse assess at the surgical site?

Assessing the preoperative condition of the skin at the operative site is a critical responsibility for a preoperative nurse. This assessment is essential for multiple reasons.

Firstly, the condition of the skin directly impacts the risk of surgical site infections. Healthy, intact skin is vital for minimizing the risk of bacteria entering the body during surgery. Identifying any issues such as abrasions, rashes, or infections can prompt necessary interventions, such as antiseptic measures or postponing surgery if the risks are deemed too high.

Secondly, evaluating the skin can provide valuable information regarding the patient’s overall health status. For instance, poor skin condition may indicate underlying health issues that could complicate the surgical procedure and the healing process.

Lastly, documenting the skin condition helps to establish a baseline for postoperative comparison, allowing the healthcare team to monitor for any changes that might signify complications.

In contrast, while assessing the patient’s general health, the volume of available blood for transfusion, and understanding the patient’s support system are all important aspects of preoperative care, they do not directly assess the surgical site itself, which is the focus of the question.