What should the nurse do first when noting a saturated incisional dressing?

When addressing a saturated incisional dressing, the priority is to manage the situation effectively to prevent complications such as infection or excessive blood loss. Applying a pressure dressing to the incision directly addresses the immediate concern of fluid loss and can help control bleeding, which is crucial in ensuring patient safety and promoting healing. This step also provides a temporary solution while further assessment and care are planned.

Taking this action first helps stabilize the patient's condition, enables the nurse to monitor for changes, and ensures that the surgical site is protected. Once the pressure dressing is applied, the nurse can then proceed with other necessary actions, such as notifying the healthcare provider or documenting the findings. This step-wise approach prioritizes immediate patient care while still allowing for necessary follow-up actions.