What should protruding organs be covered with?

• A. Moist sterile abdominal dressing
• B. Dry gauze
• C. Plastic wrap
• D. Wet cloth

Answer: (A)

When organs protrude, the priority is to protect them and keep them viable. Cover them with a moist sterile abdominal dressing because the moist environment helps prevent desiccation and reduces the risk of contamination. The sterile barrier also protects exposed tissues from additional contaminants while you arrange transport. Do not push the organs back in. Dry gauze can stick and dry out the tissue, plastic wrap can trap moisture and contaminants, and a wet cloth lacks sterility. If a sterile dressing isn’t available, a clean moist cloth can be used as a temporary measure, but a moist sterile dressing is the best option.