First Aid Flashcards
what are acute wounds?
- Punctures, abrasions, lacerations, burns
- OK to self treat if wound is not below dermis
What are chronic wounds?
-anything other than acute wounds
exclusions to wound self care
- deeper puncture wounds
- animal bites
- gaping wounds
- wounds with foreign material despite cleansing
- sever pain or numbness
- inability to move structures below wounds
- new wounds in patients with bleeding disorders
- chronic or infected wounds
Why and how to stop bleeding
- bleeding cleanses wounds
- head bleeds more because it is more vascular
- constant pressure for 15 minutes
How to cleanse a wound?
cleanse once with tap water with significant pressure then cover
How and why to apply antibiotic ointment
- prevent infection
- max 5 days
- use single otherwise allergy can build
- apply with qtip
Plastic Tape pros and cons
pros - strong adherence, easily tear
cons - remove hair, can cause allergy, cant use on joints
-$
Paper Tape pros and cons
pros - rips easy, bettter for short term use and sensitive skin
cons- not sticky
-$$
Fabric Tape pros and cons
pros - moderatley adherent, less likely to cause skin rxn,
cons - may remove hair, harder to rip
-$$$
Waterproof tape pros and cons
pros - thick, very adherent over joints
cons- need scissors, removes hair, skin rxns
how to apply Liquid bandage
- spray light amount 1-3x daily and let dry
- can apply 2nd coating
- bend joint during application
- remove by adding fresh liquid and quickly wipe off
Cautions when using Liquid bandage
- may sting
- clean before app
- stains
- limit 1 week
- avoid infected or draining wounds
Avoid when using liquid bandage
- antibiotic ointment or cream
- applying over stitches
- apply to mucous membranes
- inhaling contents/fumes
Scabs purpose
- protect wounds from debris
- do not remove, longer healing time and more scarring
Stitches Care
- elevation
- antibiotic ointment
- wash and dry
- cover
