What treatment should be applied to a wound if an evisceration occurs?

In the event of an evisceration, which involves the protrusion of internal organs through a wound, it is crucial to protect the exposed tissues and prevent further injury or contamination. The correct action is to moisten the protruding organs with sterile saline. This approach helps to keep the organs hydrated, reduces the risk of tissue necrosis, and maintains their viability until surgical intervention can be performed.

Moistening with sterile saline also provides a barrier against environmental contaminants, minimizing the possibility of infection. The primary goal in this situation is to care for the protruding organs while preparing the patient for emergency surgical repair.

The other options do not provide the necessary care that is required in this critical situation. For instance, applying a dry sterile dressing could cause the exposed organs to dry out, which would be detrimental. Keeping the area dry and uncovered does not offer protection or support to the exposed organs. Packing the wound with gauze may not adequately address the need to keep the protruding tissues moist, further risking their health.