Wound Care Guide
By: Hannah Jones
Abrasions
When the skin is scraped against a rough surface and the top layer of skin wears away
Laceration
When a sharp or pointed object tears tissues and results in a wound with jagged edges
Incision
A wound with smooth edges
Puncture
It can easily occur during an activity but could be fatal and could also introduce tetanus bacillus to the bloodstream
Avulsion
When the skin is torn from the body and there is major bleeding
Make sure to wear gloves!
Steps to Care for Wounds:
Controlling Bleeding:
- Direct Pressure
- Pressure on wound with gauze
- Don't remove if blood comes through, add more gauze
2. Elevation
- Elevate above heart if possible, it slows bleeding
- Continue pressure
3. Pressure Points
- Apply pressure to an artery to decrease blood flow to an area
- 2 main options:
1. Brachial artery - upper arm
2. Femoral artery - top of thigh
Immediate Care:
- Use Universal Precautions - all wounds should be treated as though they have been contaminated with bloodborne pathogens
- First step is to Put On Gloves!!
- To minimize infection clean wound with copious amounts of soap, water, and sterile solution
Dressing:
- Sterile dressing
- Antibacterial ointments are effective in limiting bacterial growth ad preventing wound from sticking to dressing
Does it Need Stitches?
- Deep lacerations, incisions, and occasionally punctures
- May be needed if the wound edges cannot be easily pushed back together
- Decision should be made by physician
- Sutures should be used within 12 hours
- Can use steri-strips if stitches are not required
Signs of Infection:
- Pain
- Heat
- Redness
- Swelling
- Disorder Function
- Pus may form due to accumulation of white blood cells
- Fever may develop as immune system fights bacterial infection