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wound

Alternative names :

Wound - cut or puncture; Open wound; Laceration

Definition    

A cut is an injury that results in a break or opening in the skin. A laceration is a jagged, irregular cut. A puncture is a wound made by a pointed object (like a nail, knife, or sharp tooth).

Symptoms   

  •  Bleeding
  •  Loss of feeling or function below the wound site
  •  Pain
First Aid   

Minor cuts and puncture wounds can be treated at home. Take the following steps.

FOR MINOR CUTS

  •  1. Wash your hands with soap to avoid infection.
  • 2. Wash the cut thoroughly with mild soap and water.
  •  3. Use direct pressure to stop the bleeding.
  •  4. Apply an antibacterial ointment.
  • 5. If the cut is likely to get dirty or be re-opened by friction, cover it (once the bleeding has stopped) with a bandage that will not stick to the injury.

    • FOR MINOR PUNCTURES

  •   1. Wash your hands.
  •   2. Use a stream of water for at least five minutes to rinse the puncture wound. Wash with soap.
  •   3. Look (but DO NOT probe) for objects inside the wound. If found, DO NOT remove -- go to the emergency room. If you cannot see anything inside the wound, but a piece of the object that caused the injury is missing, also seek medical attention.
  •   4. Apply antibacterial ointment and a clean bandage.

    • Do Not 

    • DO NOT assume that a minor wound is clean because you can't see dirt or debris inside. Wash it.
    • DO NOT breathe on an open wound.
    • DO NOT try to clean a major wound, especially after the bleeding is under control.
    • DO NOT remove a long or deeply embedded object. Seek medical attention.
    • DO NOT probe or pick debris from a wound. Seek medical attention.
    • DO NOT push exposed body parts back in. Cover them with clean material until medical help arrives.

    The following types of wounds are more likely to become infected: bites, punctures, crushing injuries, dirty wounds, wounds on the feet, and wounds that are not promptly treated.

    If you receive a serious wound, your doctor may order laboratory tests, such as a blood test and skin culture to check for bacteria.

    Prevention   

    • Keep knives, scissors, firearms, and breakables out of the reach of children. When children are old enough, teach them to how to use knives and scissors safely.
    • Keep up-to-date on vaccinations. A tetanus vaccine is generally recommended every 10 years.