Important Procedures Administering Of Wound Cleaning

By Lora Jones


Wound cleaning and care are fascinating chemical, biological, mechanical, and systemic procedures with local results. It enhances and expedites healing capabilities making the process gratifying for caretaker. Wounds are injuries which are caused by physical methods, and which disrupt normal continuity of structures and tissues. Total care of open wounds involves sanitizing it and seeking medical attention within a certain time frame. It is, however, important to note that controlling bleeding is the most crucial thing a victim must do when confronted with an open body injury .

Minor scrapes and cuts do not usually require a trip to the emergency room. However, proper care is crucial to avoid further complications or infections. Minor cuts and scrapes often stop bleeding on their own. In case the bleeding does not stop, gentle pressure should be applied stop further the bleeding. If blood continues spurting after applying the pressure, seek medical attention.

Maintaining a clean cut is equally essential as cleaning it. If a gash seems dirty or contaminated after it has been cleaned and dressed, it is advisable to get rid of the dressing and clean it again. Maintaining a clean cut is the best way to avoid any form of infection. Opening and operating on open laceration can sometimes trigger bleeding. The bleeding, though minor, can lead to further infection. It can, however, be easily controlled through the application of direct pressure using a clean and sterile dressing.

After cleaning the wound, apply a layer of antibiotic ointment or cream to help keep the surface moist. The antibiotics do not have to expedite the healing process, but they can discourage further infection and help in the natural healing process. Some ointments have ingredients that cause mild rash in some people. If rashes appear, it is advisable to stop using the ointment.

The most important thing to do when confronted with an open cut is to ensure bleeding is controlled. Sanitizing an open cut occasionally causes bleeding of a healing cut to start. Although the bleeding may be minor, it must be stopped so that the condition of the cut does not worsen. The open cut can then be dressed once bleeding has stopped.

If a cut starts to bleed unexpectedly, prescribed steps should be followed to control it. If bleeding does not stop, the patient must seek medical attention from a health facility. In case the victim gets dizzy, weak or pale, emergency department must be called, and treatment of shock administered.

Wounds that are more than six millimeters deep and have muscle or fat protrusions usually require stitches. Butterfly tapes or adhesive strips can hold minor cuts together, but if the cut cannot be held together, it is advisable to see a doctor. Proper closure within a few hours also reduces the risk of infection.

Despite significant advances in wound cleaning and care in recent years, little attention has been focused on the use of cleansing solutions. However, it ensures quick healing of the injury, prevents worsening of the condition and also ensure germs do not cause further infections such as tetanus. It therefore plays a crucial role in care of patients.




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