newly created Word document won't print

I have a Dimension 8300 desktop, purchased new in 2004 with a HP 882C inkjet printer, admittedly old but has worked great until now.   For two days I've attempted to print a new Word document  before it dawned on me that "new" is the problem.  Old documents will print, the new one will not.  I can print test page and  have gone through all the "add new printer" processes, which installs a "copy" of the HP882C, which then will not print the new document either.    I tried installing with the HP disc, only to receive message that it is not compatible.  I went to the HP site and followed instructions for "add new printer" (as I'd already done at least twice) and they say not to use the HP disc that came with the printer but if prompted, to use the XP disc or Recovery disc that came with the computer.  That didn't work either and I'm a little afraid of that XP disc since I've read about "XP repairs" that lose files.  I thought the driver might be the problem but HP does not offer an upgrade, says its on the XP disc.  How do I check to see if the port is working?  Is this an Office Word problem or a printer problem or a systerm problem?  PC seems buggy, slow to respond and system restore won't restore at any points, but  viruses or bugs do not show up on Norton scans.  Any suggestions from Dell support or fellow users very welcome.