While caring for a client after a small bowel resection, the nurse is informed that the client has a history of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). To reduce the risk of recurrence of the MRSA in the postoperative wound, which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

A. While reporting an increase in white blood cell count is important, it is more a sign of infection rather than a direct preventive measure. B. Wearing a face mask can help prevent respiratory spread but is less critical for MRSA, which is typically spread by direct contact. C. Instructing the family to adhere to contact precautions is important but not the primary action. D. Changing the surgical dressing when soiled is crucial to prevent contamination and potential infection of the wound, directly reducing the risk of MRSA recurrence.