There are different types of wound treatment, and the type a patient receives will depend on the injury being treated. Wounds may be cleaned and bandaged, stitched, or wrapped in order to provide proper healing. Some may also require additional treatment, such as surgery. If complications arise, such as infection, medications may also be needed to kill any bacteria that may have entered through the wound site.
For minor injuries, different types of wound treatment will likely involve cleaning the area thoroughly and wrapping it with some type of bandage. Cuts and scrapes can often be treated at home. The area can be cleaned with a commercial product, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide. After the area is clean, a commercial stick-on bandage may be used.
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More severe cuts may require different types of wound treatment, including stitches and heavier bandaging to prevent dirt and bacteria from entering the wound during healing. Stitches are generally used when the wound is very wide or deep. They help to hold the skin together so that healing will be faster and more complete. Heavy bandaging may be wrapped around the entire area, or gauze may be taped onto the skin.
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If the injury involves a break or sprain, different types of wound treatment will likely include X-rays being taken, resetting the bone into place, and then being immobilized by a cast or heavy wrapping. Patients will be encouraged to move the area as little as possible to prevent further injury. Any cuts or gashes in the same area will treated much like any other open wound.
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Surgery may be required if the wound involves shrapnel or any other foreign object that becomes lodged within the body. Surgeons may have to make an incision from which to remove such objects. Once the operation is complete, wound treatment will be like with any other surgery. The incision site will be kept clean and covered. Patients are also closely monitored to ensure that infection does not occur, and that the wound is healing properly.
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Any open wound puts a patient at higher risk for developing an infection. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the opening, allowing it to circulate more quickly. Signs of infection include redness at the wound opening, leakage or pus, fever, nausea, and dizziness. If any of these symptoms are present, patients are advised to go back to the doctor to be checked and possibly given an antibiotic. Keeping wounds clean and dressed can help prevent infection.