Wound Care Dos and Don'ts (2024)

FAQs

What are some do's and don ts in treating wounds? ›

Don't use hydrogen peroxide or iodine to clean the cut. They are harmful to the skin and can actually delay healing. Don't leave a cut or scrape exposed to the air. A bandage can protect the area from rubbing against clothing and getting dirt and bacteria in it, while keeping the cut moist to heal faster.

To help the injured skin heal, use petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist. Petroleum jelly prevents the wound from drying out and forming a scab; wounds with scabs take longer to heal. This will also help prevent a scar from getting too large, deep or itchy.

If the wound is in an area that has more bacteria — like the urinary tract, gastrointestinal system, or respiratory system — fluids and other contaminants could get into the wound and cause infection. Dirt or a foreign object in the wound also can increase the risk of infection.

The benefits of Neosporin can be offset by some of the risks of long-term or unnecessary use. This includes the risk of antibiotic resistance and allergy.

Wounds need to be covered so that they can heal properly. When a wound is left uncovered, the new surface cells that are being created can easily dry out. When these important cells dry out, it tends to slow down the healing process. A wound should be covered using a clean bandage.

Fresh fruits and vegetables eaten daily will also supply your body with other nutrients essential to wound healing such as vitamin A, copper and zinc. It may help to supplement your diet with extra vitamin C. Keep your wound dressed. Wounds heal faster if they are kept warm.

Promote Wound Healing with Good Nutrition

Choose vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli or strawberries. For adequate zinc, choose fortified grains and protein foods, such as beef, chicken, seafood or beans. Some wounds may require a higher intake of certain vitamins and minerals to support healing.

If the previous dressing has stuck on to the wound, use scissors to cut off as much as possible and then place the wound with the dressing into the water bath and soak the remainder of the dressing off. You can slowly peel it away. If you have packing in your wound, remove it gradually while you soak.

What to wash a wound with? ›

Clean area twice daily with soap and water, and apply a new bandage and ointment after cleaning. There is no need to use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol for cleaning. Continue this care until wound is fully healed. Deep or gaping wounds may need stitches or other wound care from a medical professional.

Caring for the Wound

Try to remove all drainage and any dried blood or other matter that may have built up on the skin. Do not use skin cleansers, alcohol, peroxide, iodine, or soap with antibacterial chemicals. These can damage the wound tissue and slow healing.