How to Reassess Wound Treatment After Initial Care?

Reassessing Signs of Infection

When reassessing a wound, look for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If you notice any of these signs, consider it a sign of infection and adjust treatment accordingly. Monitor the wound for signs of infection every 12-24 hours.

Adjusting Wound Cleaning and Closure

If the wound is not progressing as expected, reassess the wound cleaning technique and adjust as necessary. For example, if a wound is not healing due to debris or dirt, use an improvised cleaning solution made from a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). For wounds that require closure, use a suture or stapler, or apply a topical adhesive dressing to promote healing.

Improvised Bandages and Dressings

When it comes to dressing the wound, use improvised bandages made from available materials such as gauze, cloth, or even plant material. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment to the wound to promote healing and prevent infection. Secure the dressing with medical tape or twine, and change the dressing daily or as needed to promote healing and prevent infection.