During a home visit after emergency abdominal surgery, a 32-year-old man reports a sudden popping sensation at his incision. Loops of bowel protrude through the wound with serosanguineous drainage. His HR is 108/min and RR is 22/min, increased from yesterday. Which action should the LPN/VN take immediately?
- Complete the routine negative-pressure dressing change because separation is expected during healing.
- Cover the exposed bowel with a clean, dry household towel while arranging transport.
- Activate emergency help, protect the exposed tissue with a sterile saline-moistened covering, and notify the surgical team.
- Apply a dry routine dressing and document the finding for the next visit.