It is equally important to keep wounds clean in order to prevent an infection developing from contamination and subsequent colonization. That’s why if you or your child gets a cut, scrape, or burn, it’s important to clean the wound properly right away.
Following are the steps you could take:
Use soap and water or hand sanitizer to clean your hands, if possible put on disposable gloves. Do this before you touch your wound or treat someone else’s burn, cut, or scrape which further help prevent infections.
Skip this step for burns but if the wound is bleeding, take note of the following.
Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze to gently press on the wound until bleeding stops except for small cuts and scrapes may not require pressure. Raise the affected part. If blood oozes through the cloth or gauze, leave the covering on the wound. Place another clean piece on top and continue to apply pressure.
Consider medical attention right away if:
To thoroughly clean a simple cut or scrape. Just follow these steps:
Over-the-counter skin antibioticcream or ointment, help keep the skin moist and ward off infection. It’s not always necessary to use these if you have a minor cut or scrape. But it can boost your body’s natural healing process and reduce scarring. Doctors may recommend using a topical antibiotic if you have burn blisters that break open.
Some people are allergic to certain ingredients in these products. If a rashes and irritation persists, stop using the cream or ointment.
You need not to bandage every boo-boos. For minor scrape or cut, clean it and leave it alone. Otherwise, place a clean, sterile, non-stick bandage on the wound after cleaning it. This helps keep out germs.
Tip: Paper tape may be less irritating to sensitive skin. Change the bandage at least once a day or when it's wet or dirty.
Rule of Thumb: Always cover large wounds.
Be extra careful to cover any cuts or wounds on areas that tend to get dirty or germy, like your hands or feet. Bandage a wound that would rub on clothing, such as a cut on your knee.
Don’t pick at any scabs -- they’re part of the healing process. Picking at them can leave a scar.
Call your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms.
If you showed any signs on the aforementioned symptoms, consult your doctor. And to avoid these from happening, take prevention.
References
How Should I Clean a Wound?. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/relieving-wound-pain#1. Published 2019. Accessed February 11, 2020.
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