In preparing to treat a pressure ulcer, which action is performed first?

• A. Determine if the patient has allergies to topical agents
• B. Determine if the patient needs pain medication
• C. Position the patient for access to dressing removal
• D. Remove the dressing and place it in a plastic bag

Answer: (A)

Safety starts with checking for allergies to topical products before treating a pressure ulcer. If a patient has an allergy to any agent you might use—such as antiseptics, anesthetics, adhesives, or cleansers—you can select a safe alternative and plan for a patch test or extra precautions. This prevents an immediate or delayed allergic reaction that could worsen the wound, complicate healing, or require delaying care.

Pain assessment and analgesia are important for comfort, but they don’t override the need to know what you’ll apply to the skin. Proper positioning helps you access and remove the dressing, but you’d do that after confirming what products are safe to use. Removing the dressing and disposal steps are part of the procedure, yet they follow safety checks rather than precede them.