How often should dressings be changed after toenail removal?
Post-operative Day 1:
- The initial dressing placed after toenail removal is usually left undisturbed for the first 24 hours to allow the blood to clot and minimize further bleeding.
Day 2 and Beyond:
- During dressing changes, the old dressing and any accumulated discharge should be gently removed using sterile saline or wound cleansing solution.
- The wound should be inspected for any signs of infection or excessive bleeding.
- A fresh, sterile dressing should be applied to cover the wound and prevent contamination.
Frequency:
- For the first few days, dressings may need to be changed more frequently (twice a day) to ensure proper wound care and prevent infection.
- As the wound starts to heal, dressing changes can be gradually reduced to once daily.
Consult Your Doctor:
- Follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor regarding dressing changes.
- If you notice any signs of infection or excessive pain, it's important to contact your doctor promptly.