Wound care - A Quick Read

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Had a wound injury recently?

Want to take care of it but not sure how?

What is a wound?

• injury that results in internal tissue getting externally exposed.

Types

• Broadly 2 types:

  • open

    • Abrasion wounds - like a scrape from falling

    • Laceration - like a cut from a blade or machine

    • Avulsion - like skin tearing away from animal attacks or accidents

    • Puncture - like needle or bullet injury

    • Incision - like from broken glass 

  • closed

    • tissue damage and bleeding under the skin like bruises.

Treatment

• Bleeding control priority if bleeding is involved.

• Clean the wound

• Apply antibiotics or antiseptics *

• Apply dressing depending on wound

  • waterproof bandages

  • gauze bandages

  • antibiotic infused bandages

  • skin tapes

  • adhesive bandages

• Regular cleaning and changing dressing

• Can use medication to help relieve pain

Lifestyle Adaptations and options

• keep the wounds well sanitized

• regular cleaning and changing of dressing

• Home remedy may include:

  •  tumeric application

  • Aloe vera application

  • Coconut oil application

Complications

• Infections if left untreated

  • can cause swelling

  • severe pain

  • discharge

  • fever

  • foul odor

• Prone to Tetanus from skin opening resulting from the wound

• Chronic wound

  • may be result of weak immune system

  • underlying disease conditions like diabetes can result in amputation if becomes unmanageable.

All these and more are available at Health First pharmacy...visit us for all your health needs first...talk to us first!!!