When removing tape from the skin during wound care, which step should be performed first?

• A. Loosen the ends
• B. Pull the tape in the direction of hair growth
• C. Use adhesive remover to loosen the tape
• D. Gently lift the outer end perpendicular to the skin surface

Answer: (A)

When removing tape, the first move is to create slack in the tape by loosening the ends. This reduces the grip of the adhesive on the skin, making the peel gentler and smoother and helping prevent skin tearing or painful pulling. Once the ends are loosened, you can begin lifting the outer edge carefully and peel the tape away slowly, ideally in a direction that minimizes discomfort and skin trauma. Using adhesive remover or pulling along hair growth can help in other situations, but they’re not the first step.