Step-by-Step Wound Care
- Stop bleeding: apply firm direct pressure with a clean cloth for 10–15 minutes. Elevate the limb.
- Wash hands before handling the wound.
- Irrigate the wound: rinse thoroughly under running tap water for 5–10 minutes. Remove visible debris.
- Clean around the wound: mild soap on surrounding skin — avoid inside the wound.
- Apply antiseptic if contaminated: povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine solution once — do not apply repeatedly as it impairs healing.
- Cover: non-adherent dressing (e.g., Mepore, Mepilex) or plaster. Change daily or if wet.
- Monitor: check daily for infection signs — expanding redness, swelling, increasing pain, pus, fever.
When to Seek Medical Attention
| Situation | Action |
|---|---|
| Deep or gaping wound (>1 cm) | A&E or minor injuries for closure (sutures, steri-strips, or tissue glue) |
| Heavy bleeding not stopped with 15 min pressure | A&E |
| Wound over a joint (especially knuckle from punch) | A&E — risk of tendon or joint capsule injury |
| Animal or human bite | A&E — high infection risk; may need antibiotics and rabies prophylaxis |
| Contaminated wound (soil, faeces, rust) | Tetanus booster if >5 years or uncertain vaccination history |
| Signs of infection (cellulitis) | GP — antibiotics; A&E if fever, red tracking lines (lymphangitis), or unwell |
Moist Wound HealingKeeping wounds moist (with appropriate dressings — not wet) significantly speeds healing and reduces scarring. Dry crusting slows healing and increases scar formation. Modern dressings (hydrocolloids like Duoderm) maintain a moist environment.
Signs of Wound InfectionSpreading redness, increasing pain after 48 hours, warmth, pus or cloudy discharge, red streaking up the limb (lymphangitis), or fever — seek medical attention promptly. Do not delay.
Can I use hydrogen peroxide on a wound?
No — hydrogen peroxide damages healing tissue and delays wound closure. Use clean tap water irrigation instead. Saline is equivalent to tap water for wound cleaning in most settings.
When should stitches be removed?
Depending on site: face 5–7 days, scalp 7–10 days, upper body 10 days, lower body/joints 10–14 days. Keep dry until removed. Dissolving sutures require no removal — they absorb within 2–6 weeks depending on type.
How can I minimise scarring?
Keep the wound moist during healing, protect from sun for 12 months (UV delays maturation), massage with moisturiser once healed, consider silicone gel or sheets (moderate evidence for hypertrophic scar reduction). Avoid cigarette smoking — significantly impairs wound healing.
What is cellulitis?
A bacterial skin infection (usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus) of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue — presenting as spreading redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. Treated with antibiotics. Red tracking up the limb (lymphangitis) or fever requires urgent medical review.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.