The Basics: Caring For Wounds

From major cuts to mild scrapes, injuries are an inevitable part of life. Fortunately, what we can control is our response to injuries. If left untreated, minor injuries can turn into infected wounds and make things a lot worse for you. Symptoms of wound infection can include increasing pain, redness, and swelling. Infections can also cause nausea, fever, or chills in some cases. 

ALWAYS start by washing your hands

Many people often skip this step in the hustle and bustle of treating the wound. You should know that even if you follow other wound treating procedures, your dirty hands are enough to cause some serious infection. 

That’s why make sure you clean your hands thoroughly before you start treating the wound. Use soap and water or a hand sanitizer for better results. It would also be best to put on disposable gloves before touching the wound. 

Washing and covering your hands will minimize the risk of infection and help you start treating the wound safely. 


The first aid kit

Regardless of the size of the wound, your first aid kit will make sure it doesn’t get worse. It is literally the first medical assistance that can help you kickstart the treatment for your wounds. 

That’s why it is advised that one must keep a well-stocked first-aid kit handy to handle such minor emergencies at home. You must also fill your first aid kit with supplies such as tweezers, hand sanitizer, gloves, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and antibiotic ointments. 

You can also curb the risk of infection by using first aid products that are enriched with the properties of Medical-grade manuka honey instead of artificial antibiotics. You don’t have to worry about irritants or contaminants with such first aid products. Not to mention, they are also sterilized thoroughly, making them safe to use on wounds and scratched skin. 

Look for signs of adhesive or latex injury

For sensitive skin people, there’s a good chance that they might end up experiencing an itchy, blistery, or burning sensation under the bandage. 

You should know that such symptoms are telltale adhesive or latex injury signs. 

It would be best to immediately switch to sterile gauze and paper tape in such cases. Using adhesive-free dressing can also help get rid of such uncomfortable sensations. 

Once you’ve started with the wound treatment, make sure you take care of it by applying ointments and regular dressing. And if things seem to get out of hand, seek professional medical assistance before it gets worse. 

Tienlyn Jacobson