Wound Care Guide
By Amanda Minot
Abrasions
- Skin scraped against a rough surface.
- Top layer of skin wears away.
- Often exposed to dirt and foreign materials = increased risk for infection
Lacerations
- Sharp or pointed object tears tissues - results in wound with jagged edges.
Punctures
- Can easily occur during activity but could be fatal.
- Could introduce tetanus bacillus to bloodstream.
Avulsion
- Skin is torn from body = major bleeding
- Place avulsed tissue in moist gauze (saline), plastic bag and immerse in cold water.
- Take victim to hospital for reattachment.
Incision
- Wound with smooth edges.
Step-by-Step Wound Care
- PUT ON GLOVES!
- Direct Pressure - apply pressure on wound with gauze; do not remove if blood comes through - just add more gauze.
- Elevation - elevate above heart if possible - this slows bleeding; continue pressure.
- Pressure points - apply pressure to an artery to decrease blood flow to an area. Two main options: Brachial artery = upper arm; Femoral artery = top of thigh.
How Do I Know When Stitches Are Necessary?
- Deep lacerations, incisions, and occasionally punctures may need stitches.
- May be needed if the wound edges cannot be easily pushed back together.
- Decision should be made by a physician.
- Sutures should be used within 12 hours.
- You can use steri-strips if stitches are not required.
Signs of Wound Infection
- Pain
- Heat
- Redness
- Swelling
- Disordered Function
- Pus may form due to accumulation of white blood cells
- Fever may develop as immune system fights infection.