To promote optimum patient comfort after nasal surgery, we've developed an easy and cost-effective way to apply the post-op nasal-drip pad that eliminates using tape. As you can see, a customized molded cone mask holds the support dressing in place.

To create the support, trim the top and the bottom of a mask down to leave about a one-half-inch strip between the elastic strap. Roll or tri-fold two or three 4-inch-by-4-inch gauze pads and place them under the patient's nose. Place the trimmed mask over the gauze and slide the elastic band over the patient's ears and around his or her head to secure the pad.

This allows for easy changing of the drip pad as it becomes soiled. We send patients home with one or two extra such supports and several gauze pads in plastic zipped bags for their convenience.

Diana Procuniar, RN, BA, CNOR
Nurse Administrator
Winter Haven Ambulatory Surgical Center
Winter Haven, Fla.
writeMail("dprocuniar@winterhavenasc.com")