What if the cut you got wasn’t just a cut—it was more like fine sand that stuck to your skin?
The next time you expose your skin to the outdoors, think twice. Sand will find its way into minor cuts, and when that sand gets into your body, it can mess with you. The sand-borne disease can be as scary as it sounds.
If your cut looks a little red and infected, it’s time to give it a deep cleaning. Let’s walk through how to clean an infected wound.
Gather Proper Cleaning Supplies
To clean an infected wound, it is important first to gather the supplies. These supplies should include sterile gauze, antibacterial soap, warm water, and rubbing alcohol. Once you have these materials, sterilize the wound area with rubbing alcohol.
Next, wash the wound with the antibacterial soap and warm water and allow it to air dry. Once it has air dried, cover the area with sterile gauze and clean it every day for a few days until the wound has healed. Also, you can go to wound treatment at Wound Evolution.
Prepare the Wound for Cleaning
Focus on removing any visible contaminants, as they can clear finer particles away during the washing process. Once the foreign material is removed, apply sterile gauze and pressure to stop the bleeding. Flush the wound with cool, clean water to remove particles and bacteria.
This can be done with a syringe and wound irrigation solution or a slow, steady stream of water. Use gauze and towels to blot out the remaining moisture. Apply an antiseptic solution to the wound, such as diluted hydrogen peroxide or iodine. This will help protect the wound from further infection.
Apply Antibiotic Ointment
Infected wound cleaning is by irrigating the wound with saline or water to remove any debris and bacteria. Using a soft washcloth, clean the wound in a gentle, circular motion. Make sure all dirt, dead skin, and other particles are removed.
Then, using a pair of sterile gloves and a clean cotton swab, apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound. Take care not to over-apply the ointment, as this can promote bacteria growth.
Apply a fresh bandage over the ointment and wound, making sure it is not too tight, as this can restrict blood circulation to the affected area. Replace the bandage at least twice per day, or as often as needed, cleaning and re-applying to the wound as necessary.
Monitor the Wound for Healing and Infection
To monitor the wound for healing and infection, check for pain, redness, swelling, pus, and a foul smell. If at any point the wound feels more painful or any of the above symptoms occur, consult a medical professional.
Start by cleaning the wound gently with mild soap and water. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic cream to help the wound heal. Cover it with clean gauze and a light wrap.
Monitor for any changes in the color, size, or odor of the wound, and if any become pronounced, seek medical attention immediately.
You Need to Know How to Clean an Infected Wound
On how to clean an infected wound is by cleaning and dressing an infected wound is essential to its successful healing. Following the instructions outlined in this article, it can clean a wound without further infection or delay in the healing process.
Don’t wait - take the necessary steps to clean, protect and heal your wound.
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