Have trash nearby. Before you begin, wash your hands with soap and dry them well. Clean the surface you will be using and lay down a clean cloth. Gather supplies on the cloth. You will need two pairs of gloves. Open the gauze, but don't take it out. Touch only the packaging. Measure and cut the tape to the size needed. Put on gloves. Gently peel off the old dressing, starting at a corner. Peel up one corner at a time. Peel towards the wound only. Throw away the old dressing. Remove and throw away the gloves. Wash and dry your hands again. Put on a clean pair of gloves. Clean around the wound. Clean the wound. Remove the gauze from the package, touching only the corners. Place it over the wound. Tape the gauze to the skin. Remove and throw away the gloves. Wash your hands again.
Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2020
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Learn More About Health Services at PIH Health
Expert care for every stage of life. Explore the comprehensive services offered at PIH Health.
Explore Services
Get Health Tips & Updates
Sign up for helpful health information, wellness tips and news from PIH Health, delivered straight to your inbox.
SubscribeRelated Articles
Incision and Wound Care
Learn these guidelines to care for your surgical site or wound.
Pressure Injury Prevention
Learn how shifting your position often in bed can help prevent pressure injuries.
Step-by-Step: Changing a Surgical Wound Dressing
Here are the steps for changing a surgical wound dressing.
What is a Pressure Injury?
Learn what pressure injuries are, and why hospitalized patients are at risk for developing them.
Personalized Care Starts with the Right Provider
Search by specialty, location, and more.
Find A Doctor
Make an Appointment
Your health can't always wait. Schedule an appointment with a PIH Health provider.
Schedule an Appointment
Find a PIH Health Urgent Care Location
Need care today?. Find the nearest PIH Health Urgent Care location.
Find Urgent Care
