Surgery  >  Changing a Gauze Dressing

talk to your doctor about any concerns you have

What to Tell the Doctor

    Take your care diary with you or give it to the person when they visit the doctor. Review your notes about the appearance of the wound and dressing.

    Call the doctor if:

  • The person has a fever
  • If the wound begins to have yellowish or greenish drainage
  • If the drainage seems foul smelling.
  • If the wound increases in size.
  • If a previously closed wound opens or the wound edges separate.
  • Ask the doctor or home health nurse about the best fluids to use for cleansing the wound.