Rationale and key points

Wound swabbing is a widespread practice undertaken by nurses and other healthcare professionals in various healthcare environments and involves collecting a sample from the wound surface using a sterile swab. The sample acquired from the wound swab is sent for laboratory analysis to assess the level of bioburden present in a wound and to guide treatment decisions. Before undertaking this procedure, the nurse should perform a structured wound assessment and use their clinical judgement to identify the presence of infection and determine if a wound swab is necessary. This How to article details the procedure for obtaining a wound swab safely. Nurses undertaking this activity must have the knowledge and skills required to do so safely, follow local policy, and must work within their level of competence.

• Wound infection is challenging for patients, their families and healthcare professionals, as it can result in delayed wound healing leading to increased hospital admissions and can adversely affect patients’ quality of life.

• Obtaining and preparing the equipment required to obtain a wound swab, and to cleanse the wound if necessary, prevents excessive exposure of the wound to the environment.

• There is ongoing debate regarding the optimal method for obtaining a wound swab sample, therefore nurses should follow local guidelines and policies.

• Understanding the clinical objectives of wound swabbing and adhering to the best available evidence on the identification of wound infection can support nurses to confidently make decisions about the need for a wound swab.

Reflective activity

‘How to’ articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of:

• How this article might improve your practice when obtaining a wound swab.

• How you could use this information to educate nursing students or colleagues about the indications for, and the appropriate methods for obtaining, a wound swab.