In wound care for MRSA, which cleansing direction is correct?

• A. Cleanse from outer surface to inner surface
• B. Cleanse from inner surface to outer surface
• C. Cleanse in a circular motion around the wound
• D. Wipe with a dry cloth only

Answer: (A)

Direction of cleansing matters to prevent spreading MRSA during wound care. Start on the surrounding, clean areas and move toward the wound; this clean-to-dirty progression helps prevent contaminating healthy skin and reduces the chance of pushing bacteria into the wound. Use fresh gauze with an appropriate antiseptic or prescribed cleansing solution, discarding material after each stroke to avoid recontamination. Avoid cleaning in a circular motion around the wound, which can spread bacteria, and avoid wiping with a dry cloth alone, since dry wiping won’t remove organisms.