What is the purpose of sterile technique in wound care?

• A. To prevent infection by eliminating microorganisms from the environment, equipment, and hands.
• B. To speed wound healing by immobilizing the patient.
• C. To ensure patient comfort during dressing changes.
• D. To sterilize internal body tissues.

Answer: (A)

Sterile technique in wound care aims to prevent infection by keeping the wound and surrounding field free of microorganisms. By using sterile gloves, instruments, dressings, and maintaining a clean environment, health care providers minimize the chance that pathogens are introduced into the wound during dressing changes or other manipulations. This protective approach is essential because infection can impair healing, increase discomfort, and lead to more serious complications if bacteria invade deeper tissues. Therefore, the purpose is to prevent infection by eliminating microorganisms from the environment, equipment, and hands. Sterile technique does not speed healing by immobilizing the patient, does not directly improve comfort during dressings, and cannot sterilize internal body tissues.