NCLEX-PN® ExaminationCoordinated CareEasy
An LPN is assisting with the care of a client who requires a sterile dressing change. The LPN notes that the sterile dressing kit has expired. What is the most appropriate action for the LPN?
- ADocument the expiration date and proceed with the dressing change.
- BObtain a new, unexpired sterile dressing kit.
- CUse the expired kit, ensuring all items appear visibly clean.
- DNotify the charge nurse to obtain a new kit.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Obtain a new, unexpired sterile dressing kit.
Expired sterile supplies are no longer considered sterile, regardless of their appearance, and can introduce infection risk. The most appropriate action is to obtain a new, unexpired sterile dressing kit to maintain aseptic technique and prevent infection.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Documenting the expiration date does not make the expired kit safe to use; it still poses an infection risk.
- C. Using expired sterile supplies compromises sterility and increases the risk of infection.
- D. While informing the charge nurse about expired supplies is good practice for inventory management, the immediate priority for client care is to obtain a new, unexpired kit independently if available.
Resource Management: Sterile Supplies
Ensuring the sterility of supplies is critical for patient safety. Expired sterile items must be discarded and replaced with unexpired ones to prevent infection.
- Expiration dates on sterile supplies indicate the end of guaranteed sterility.
- Using expired sterile items increases the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
- LPNs are responsible for checking expiration dates before use.
Memory trick: Expired means gone, new kit is the only safe zone.