What should be done to knots that have been properly dressed before loading?

Knots that have been properly dressed before loading should be left in the rope. Properly dressing a knot means that it has been adjusted to ensure that all parts of the rope are aligned and the knot is secure, minimizing slippage or failure under load. Once the knot is dressed correctly, it can securely perform its intended function—whether that's securing a load, creating an anchor point, or facilitating a rescue.

Leaving the knot in the rope acknowledges that it has been adequately set up for immediate use while maintaining safety and functionality. Regular checks might still be advised to ensure that the knot has not shifted or degraded over time; however, this does not necessitate removing the knot from the rope. Options that suggest removing or replacing the knot imply unnecessary actions that could lead to wastage of time and resources if the knot remains properly dressed and secure.