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First Aid For Cuts and Wounds
1. WOUNDS
A wound is a break in the continuity of the body surface (skin) which allows escape of blood and entry of microorganisms.
There are many types of wounds i.e.
- Incised wounds– these are caused by a cutting by a sharp edged object e.g. razorblade or knife or broken glass
- Lacerated wound– caused by rough object e.g. animal claws or a saw cutting into the skin. Such wounds are normally irregular and have rough edges and also usually not very deep
- Contused wound– caused by heavy object falling on the part of the body thus damaging the underlying capillaries and hence causing bleeding these wounds are normally swollen and open .bruises normally don’t show breakage on the affected skin surface
- Punctured wound– they are caused by a sharp pointed instrument driven into the body e.g. a nail. these wounds are normally deep with a narrow opening.
First aid for cuts and wounds is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Here are the steps to follow:
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Assess the situation: Before providing first aid, ensure the scene is safe for both you and the injured person. Put on disposable gloves if available to protect against potential bloodborne pathogens.
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Control bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile dressing. Maintain pressure for several minutes until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding is severe and doesn’t stop after applying pressure, call for emergency medical assistance.
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Clean the wound: Once bleeding is under control, gently clean the wound with mild soap and clean running water. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or iodine, as they can damage the tissue and delay healing.
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Apply an antibiotic ointment: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the wound. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing.
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Cover the wound: Use a sterile adhesive bandage, gauze pad, or non-stick sterile dressing to cover the wound. This protects the wound from dirt and further injury. If the wound is large or deep, it may require professional medical attention.
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Change dressings regularly: Check the wound and change the dressing at least once a day or whenever it becomes wet, dirty, or soaked with blood.
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Elevate the injured area (if applicable): If the cut or wound is on an arm or leg, raise it above the heart level to help reduce swelling.
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Watch for signs of infection: Monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or persistent pain. If any signs of infection develop, seek medical attention.
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Tetanus vaccination: Ensure the injured person’s tetanus vaccination is up to date. If the wound is deep, dirty, or caused by a contaminated object, a tetanus shot may be necessary. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
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Seek medical attention if needed: Some wounds may require professional medical attention, such as deep or large cuts, wounds that won’t stop bleeding, or wounds caused by animal bites or dirty objects. In such cases, it’s important to seek medical help promptly.