FIRST AID 101: PROPER WOUND CARE

Even the smallest cuts and scrapes can become contaminated with dirt and germs. These contaminants can hinder the healing process and cause infections. Therefore, it is important to properly care for both minor and major wounds. A wound is any break in the skin or deep tissue. To optimize the wound healing process, the wound environment should be kept clean, warm, and moist. It is important to clean and protect the wound to optimize the healing process. StayGuardTM recommends a simple 5-step process to promote faster and better healing.

The first step is to wash your hands. As the hands are contaminated with many germs, it is important to wash your hands before caring for the wound. Before washing your hands, remove any jewelry from the hands. Scrub your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel. Furthermore, disposable sterile gloves can be worn to further prevent infection risk.

Cleaning, or disinfecting, the wound, is the second step. Minor cuts and scrapes usually stop bleeding on their own, but some wounds do not. To stop the bleeding, apply gentle pressure on the wound with a clean cloth and elevate the wound. Saline solution, which is sterile salt water, is the most recommended product for cleaning the patient’s wound. StayGuardTM also recommends using the UltraGuard Surgical Skin Disinfectant for optimal disinfection. If you do not have saline or disinfecting solution, you can also clean the wound with water and a mild soap.

In most cases, StayGuardTM highly recommends treating the wound with a medicated antibiotic product. An application of a thin layer of antibiotic ointment will offer long-lasting infection protection. Not only does the antibiotic keeps the wound clean and moist but it also helps prevents the formation of scars. The ointment will also prevent the dressing or bandage from sticking to the wound. Though, some ingredients may cause a small rash in some people. If you do notice a rash or some irritation, stop using the antibiotic product immediately.

The four step is to protect the wound with a bandage or wound dressing. Bandages keep the wound clean and keep dirty bacteria out. They also create an optimal moist environment for healing. A minor scrape or scratch can be left uncovered as exposure to air aids in the healing process. The wound should only be dressed when bleeding has stopped and when the wound is clean. StayGuardTM offers various types of dressings and bandages that are designed for each type of wound. Our most popular wound dressings include: StayGuardTM Bandages, StayGuardTM Gauze Bandages, and StayGuardTM Gauze Adhesive Bandages.
For deeper wounds, we recommend closing the wound with StayGuardTM Surgical Sutures or StayGuardTM Butterfly Closures. Proper closure within few hours can minimize scarring and reduce the risk of infection.

The bandage should be changed regularly, or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. StayGuardTM recommends changing the dressing or bandage at least once a day. After the wound has almost healed, it can be left uncovered as exposure to air helps aid in the healing process.
Smaller cuts and scrapes will scab and heal within just a few days. Once a scab is formed, you may not need to use a bandage anymore as it protects the wound from dirt and harmful germs. Avoid picking at scabs as they will fall off on their own when new skin is formed. If you notice any usual signs, contact your physician immediately as it can be a sign of infection.

StayGuardTM manufactures cost-effective and high quality products for proper wound care. StayGuard™, a division of AdvaCare Pharma USA, is an internationally recognized manufacturer of a wide range of skin and wound care products. Interested in distributing our products? Find out more here.

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