Self Care

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Infected Wounds

 

All types of wounds starting from paper cuts to gunshot wounds share a danger of infection.

Usually within 24 hours, all the bacterial infection occurs, and can take up to 3 to 4 days to develop.

The main cause for the concern is a prolonged increase in pain, redness, or swelling around a wound.

If a wound results from a dirty object, a tetanus shot may be needed to prevent this disease. Once the series of basic tetanus immunizations is completed, a tetanus booster shot is needed every 10 years and more often if a wound is at high risk for tetanus. We can get the doctor’s advice, if needed.

Self Care :

Carefully wash the wound with soap and warm water immediately.

Remove all the dirt and debris.

Washing a Wound early will reduce the number of germs in and around a wound, so the body’s natural defences can stop infection.

After cleaning, leave the wound open to the air unless it will get dirty easily or oozes blood. If necessary, cover the wound with a dressing or bandage.

Change the bandage daily, checking for signs of infection.

An antibiotic ointment can be used around wound to keep the bandage from sticking to the wound.

Signs and Symptoms that needs proper care :

Increased pain at the wound site.

Redness or swelling around the wound.

Swollen lymph nodes.

High temperature that you believe to be a fever.

Pus draining from the wound.