First Aid

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Wounds

Overview:

Wounds are the most common injuries among people. Applying appropriate first aid to open wound can reduce the risk of infection and speed up the healing process.

Wounds First Aid:

Prior to cleaning or dressing the wound, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then use disposable rubber gloves.
Taking off jewels
Remove jewelry from the affected part of the body.
Apply direct pressure on the cut or wound to stop bleeding, while avoiding wrapping around the wound site; as this may lead to tissue damage.
Rinse the wound after bleeding stop, using saline solution if possible, and if not available, drinking water can be used.
Examine the wound, and remove any contamination or any embedded foreign body.
Gently, clean around the wound, using clean water and soap.
Place a sterile gauze pad over the wound, but if it is contaminated, as in case of biting (e.g. as a dog bite) or needle contamination, the wound should be left open.
Taking analgesics, such as: ibuprofen; to relieve pain, and change the bandage every 24 hours.

When to see a doctor?

If the wound has an embedded foreign body, such as a piece of wood, metal, or any other object.
If the wound is caused by an animal bite or a contaminated needle puncturing the skin.
If a wound infection occurs, and its symptoms include severe pain, swelling and redness of the wound, wound drainage (pus), and high body temperature.
If infection symptoms were shown in the blood, such as breathing problems, high heart rate, high body temperature, shivering, sweating, and severe pain.

Health Promotion and Clinical Education General Department

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