What is a primary reason to perform wound irrigation promptly?

• A. To minimize infection risk by removing contaminants
• B. To stop bleeding immediately
• C. To seal the wound
• D. To introduce antibiotics directly

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is cleaning to prevent infection. Wound irrigation promptly wash away dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the wound. By physically flushing out bacteria and particulate matter, you lower the bacterial load and reduce the chance that infection will set in as the wound heals. This cleaning step also helps you see the wound more clearly for proper assessment and planning of closure if needed.

Stopping bleeding is handled primarily with direct pressure or hemostatic measures, not irrigation. Sealing the wound is achieved through closure techniques after cleaning, not by the irrigation itself. Introducing antibiotics directly through irrigation isn’t the primary purpose; antibiotics, if needed, are given as prescribed and irrigation solutions are typically sterile saline to cleanse rather than to deliver drugs.