In managing a wound, which of the following is most critical to prevent infection?

Timely cleaning and assessment of a wound are crucial in preventing infection because they establish a clean environment that minimizes the risk of pathogens entering the wound. Cleaning the wound removes dirt, debris, and potential contaminants that can cause infection. Furthermore, an assessment allows for early detection of any signs of infection or complications, enabling prompt intervention. Proper wound management starts with adequate cleaning, which can significantly influence the healing process and reduce the likelihood of infection.

While closure with adhesive, topical antiseptics, and moisture absorption with gauze are beneficial and can support wound healing, they are secondary to the foundational step of cleaning and assessing the wound. Without proper cleaning, even the best adhesives or antiseptics may not effectively prevent infection, as they do not address the existing contaminants that cleaning would remove.