Dressings

 

Wound Dressings and Follow Up

The type of wound dressing chosen will vary depending on the wound. The following are some simple rules of thumb:

• Avoid occlusive dressings - they trap moisture, retard healing and may promote infection.

• Minor wounds on the face or extremities may be left open and coated with a thin layer of antibacterial ointment i.e. Polysporin.

• Wounds which are oozing or have raw surfaces should first be covered with a non-adherent dressing such as Vaseline impregnated gauze. A padded layer of ordinary cotton gauze may be secured over the top.

• Complex or serious extremity injuries are often splinted. This will improve patient comfort, protect injured tissues and reduce the risk of infection.

Wounds which are at significant risk for infection should be examined by a nurse or physician at 24 - 48 hours and again at 5 days. Any sign of active infection mandates close follow up.