Wounds are one of the most common injuries that people can suffer. Open wounds can be dealt with by proper first aid; First aid contributes to reducing the incidence of complications, such as: infection, and helps in healing the wound quickly and correctly.
First aid for wounds
There are a number of steps that must be followed in the event of cuts or scrapes, which include the following:
1. Wash hands and stop bleeding
Hands must be washed in order to prevent any infections, then the bleeding, which usually stands alone, must be stopped, but if it is heavy, it must be stopped by the following:
Squeeze it with a piece of cloth while lifting the wound up until it is completely standing.
Put another piece of gauze over the one that was used first instead of replacing it as it absorbs blood.
The organ affected by the bleeding should be raised to the level of the heart, if possible, in order to slow the bleeding.
Do not use a tourniquet or compressor to stop the bleeding unless it is severe.
2. Clean the wound
The wound can be cleaned by following these steps:
Washing the wound with water to prevent any infections, and it is preferable to shed tap water on it.
Stay away from wound cleansers that contain compounds, such as: iodine or hydrogen peroxide; Because these substances may cause irritation to the wound.
Use sterilized tweezers with alcohol to pick up any dirt stuck in the wound.
Wash the area around the wound with soap, taking care not to touch the wound itself.
Refer to the doctor if there are materials stuck in the wound that have not been successfully cleaned.
3. Use antibiotics or Vaseline
In order to keep the wound moist and prevent the formation of scars, a light layer of Vaseline or an ointment containing an antibiotic can be applied.
4. Cover the wound
The wound should be covered to keep it clean with a piece of gauze or a wound tape. If the wound is minor or scratches, it can be left uncovered.
5. Change the wound cap
It is best to change the wound dressing at least once during the day, or as often as necessary, whenever you notice that the gauze or bandage gets wet or becomes full of dirt.
6. Monitor symptoms
Watch for any symptoms related to inflammation, as the wound carries the possibility of infection, especially in people with immunodeficiency diseases or diabetes, and these symptoms include:
redness.
swelling.
severe pain
pus or pus
You should see a doctor when these symptoms are present or if the wound does not heal properly.
When to go to the doctor:
If there is a foreign object in the wound, such as a piece of wood, metal, or something else.
If the wound was caused by an animal bite, or by pricking with a contaminated needle.
If an infection occurs in the wound, and the symptoms of infection are: severe pain, swelling and redness of the wound, pus coming out of it, high body temperature.
If signs of infection appear in the blood, such as: shortness of breath, high heart rate, high body temperature, shivering, sweating, severe pain.
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