Wound/Abrasions

Question 1

Abrasions

Answer 1

• scraping of skin. top surface is torn away
• capillary bleeding
• increased risk of infection due to debris
• hydrogen peroxide
• anti-biotic.
• cover
• check daily

Question 2

Lacerations

Answer 2

• irregular tearing of skin
• potential for infection
• cleanse wound carefully
• apply dry, sterile dressing
• referral?
• tetanus shot?
• monitor daily

Question 3

Laceration/Incision

Answer 3

• check for depth and width for stitches

Question 4

Punctures

Answer 4

• penetration of skin with a pointed object
• clean and dress wound
• high risk for infection.
• refer?
• monitor
• tetanus shot?

Question 5

Skin Avulsion

Answer 5

• tearing away of skin
• preserve avulsed skin
• keep moist and cool
• clean around wound
• apply sterile, compression
• refer

Question 6

Infection

Answer 6

• monitor wounds daily
• signs: appear in 2-7 days
• red, swollen, hot to touch and tender
• red streaks = infection has gone systemic
• may have mild fever/headache/swollen lymph glands
• Refer!!

Question 7

Wound Dressings

Answer 7

• nonadherent
• antiseptic
• occlusive: seals wound. prevents infection from entering from the outside and prevents moisture from escaping
• Hydrocolloid: flexible, gum-like material covered with a water-resistant film. keeps stuff out, keeps moisture in

Question 8

Occlusive Dressings

Answer 8

• more effective way of managing wounds than conventional dressings
• scab formation minimized
• decrease in perceived pain from exposed nerve endings
• effective barrier against bacteria
• easier wound care

Question 9

Wound Care

Answer 9

1. sterilize all instruments
2. clean hands and wear gloves
3. sterilize around wound
4. cover wound with sterile, non-medicated dressing if referred for medical attention
5. steri-strip or butterfly bandage if sutures are needed
6. avoid touching sterile dressings
7. place antibiotic on dressing not on wound
8. secure dressing with tape or wrap

Question 10

Wound care continued

Answer 10

• topical antibiotic to prevent infection
• change dressings on wounds that are discharging fluid often to minimize infection
• betadine
• hydrogen peroxide
• practice universal precautions
• tetanus booster, every 10 years

Question 11

Sutures

Answer 11

• if in doubt, send for sutures
• time is important, within 12 hours
• depth and width of wound
• location of wound
• typically removed at 7 days
• topical skin adhesive