What is the most effective measure to prevent wound dehiscence after surgery?

• A. Limit strain on the surgical site
• B. Encourage rapid coughing
• C. Avoid any wound protection
• D. Take daily cold baths

Answer: (A)

Limiting strain on the surgical site is the most effective way to prevent wound dehiscence. When a wound is healing, its tensile strength is still low, especially in the first days to weeks after surgery. Any added stress across the incision—from coughing, sneezing, lifting, or sudden movements—can pull the edges apart and lead to dehiscence. So the nursing focus is to minimize mechanical forces across the wound: use proper wound closure technique, provide immobilization or supports as prescribed (such as a binder or splint for abdominal incisions), teach the patient to move safely and avoid heavy lifting, and help them cough or deep-breathe with the wound protected (for example, splinting with a pillow). Rapid coughing would increase intra-abdominal pressure and risk, while lack of wound protection and cold baths don’t address the mechanical stress needed to prevent separation.