Opinions wanted

[JeffNursing2004]

Hi all,

I wanted to get some input on a little question I have. I work as a nurse extern at my hospital and I am on the Neuro ICU and step down unit as well as the acute stroke unit. I am usually in the step down and I have seen some of my fellow externs doing something that just bothers me. When changing sheets of a person some of the externs will, in an effort to keep the room from smelling, put powder on the top of the sheets. I don't have much of a problem with this, except when they put it on the bed of someone with a LD, spinal incision, etc. Doesn't it seem as though the powder could get into the wound and cause problems? Or am I just being crazy?

Thanks!

JeffNursing2004

[stidget99]

My first thought w/ powder on the sheets would be respiratory problems might be exacerbated even if that is not what the pt is in for.

[tvccrn, ASN, RN]

Jeff,

I remember doing this many years ago, more for the fact that people laying on thier back sweat underneath a lot and it was more a comfort measure that to keep them sweet-smelling.

However, you are corrrect in that it should not be done with anyone who has some sort of opening be it an incision or a PCA. This is definitely an infection risk. As to how to approach it?? I think it should be done with the thought that maybe the others arent' aware this isn't the best way to do this. Itcold be the old "this is how it's always been done and we didn't think to change it" thing.