Wounds
An opening or break of the skin caused due to any injury is known as a wound. Wounds need first aid for proper healing and to avoid infections.
I. Minor wounds
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Clean the wound properly with water.
- If there is bleeding, control it by applying pressure on the affected area.
- Dry the affected area with sterile cotton swab or tissue.
- Applying an adhesive dressing or bandage.
II. Foreign bodies in wounds
- Splinters
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Clean the affected area with water.
- Using sterilized tweezers, pull out the splinter at the same angle as it’s entry.
- Clean the area after removing the splinter.
- Apply an adhesive dressing.
CAUTIONS:
- If the splinter breaks in-between or does not come out easily, follow first aid as for embedded objects.
- Embedded objects
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Control bleeding by applying pressure on the surrounding area and not directly on the wound.
- Cover the wound and the surrounding area lightly using a bandage to avoid infection.
- Arrange for medical help.