What should a CMA do first if they observe significant drainage and a foul odor from a wound dressing?

When a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) observes significant drainage and a foul odor from a wound dressing, the first step should always be to call the registered nurse (RN). This action is critical because wounds exhibiting such symptoms may indicate an infection or another complication that requires professional assessment and intervention. RNs have the training and authority to evaluate the situation, determine the severity of the condition, and decide on the appropriate course of treatment.

Involving the RN helps ensure that the patient receives timely and clinically appropriate care, which is essential for wound management and overall patient safety. By alerting the RN, the CMA is adhering to the established protocols for healthcare settings where collaboration among healthcare staff is vital for patient outcomes. This approach also ensures that any necessary medical orders or changes in care can be promptly addressed by the nursing team.

While documenting changes and notifying the family are important steps in the overall care process, they should occur after the immediate assessment and intervention by the RN. Changing the dressing immediately without consulting the RN may also overlook essential care steps and could potentially exacerbate the issue if the symptoms indicate a serious problem.