Which source is least appropriate to rely on as the sole basis for performing a dressing change?

Which source is least appropriate to rely on as the sole basis for performing a dressing change?

• A. The facility's online procedure manual
• B. The patient education handout from last year
• C. A health application on a mobile device
• D. The physician's prescription

Answer: (C)

Relying on authoritative, up-to-date sources for procedures is essential to patient safety. A mobile health application is the least appropriate sole basis for performing a dressing change because its content may not be validated for your facility, may not reflect current evidence or the patient’s specific orders, and can vary widely between apps. It can provide general tips, but it might not align with your institution’s sterile technique, chosen dressings, or change frequency. Use of the facility’s online procedure manual ensures you follow the standard protocol; the physician’s prescription gives patient-specific instructions and products to use; the patient education handout can reinforce proper care but may be outdated and should be cross-checked with current policies. So a health app should not be the only source relied upon.

Relying on authoritative, up-to-date sources for procedures is essential to patient safety. A mobile health application is the least appropriate sole basis for performing a dressing change because its content may not be validated for your facility, may not reflect current evidence or the patient’s specific orders, and can vary widely between apps. It can provide general tips, but it might not align with your institution’s sterile technique, chosen dressings, or change frequency. Use of the facility’s online procedure manual ensures you follow the standard protocol; the physician’s prescription gives patient-specific instructions and products to use; the patient education handout can reinforce proper care but may be outdated and should be cross-checked with current policies. So a health app should not be the only source relied upon.