With any cut, scrape, or open wound, it’s necessary to clean the wound before applying a bandage. Cleaning wounds has been a common practice since the beginning of time, and not for no reason. Here, we’ll explain the importance of sanitizing a wound before wrapping it.
Reduce Risk of Infection
The first reason to sanitize a wound before wrapping it is that it reduces the risk of infection. This benefit is the number one reason for cleaning wounds. Cuts, scrapes, or other various open wounds can get dirt, germs, and bacteria in them very easily. When bacteria get into an open wound, it can cause infection. Therefore, you should use warm water and soap to sanitize your wound before you put on a bandage to ensure that it is clean and free of any germs or bacteria that would put you at risk of developing an infection.
After washing, you should use an antiseptic wipe or hydrogen peroxide to sanitize the area. Then, you need to dry the affected area with a towel thoroughly so that it is ready to be wrapped. Next, select a bandage of the proper size and apply it to the wound. If you notice any redness, swelling, rash, fever, or liquid oozing from the wound, then you likely have an infection and should contact your doctor right away. However, properly sanitizing your injury should significantly reduce the risk of any infection.
Speed the Healing Process
The next reason you should sanitize a wound before wrapping it is that it speeds up the healing process. A clean, sanitized wound has a higher chance of healing well and quickly because no infection or bacteria is slowing the process. Conversely, an unclean wound is much more likely to take longer to heal because the body is working to get rid of those germs. That process requires the energy the body needs to heal the injury, thus slowing down the overall healing process.
It’s a good practice to clean the wound each time you rewrap it to ensure that it stays sanitized and free of any infection. Making sure to change your wound’s dressing periodically is also vital for the healing process. You should take all the necessary steps to sanitize your wound and make sure it stays clean to speed up its healing.
Sanitizing Your Wound
Follow these important steps when sanitizing a wound:
- Wash the affected area with soap and warm water
- Use an antiseptic wipe or hydrogen peroxide to sanitize the wound
- Pat wound dry gently
- Apply wrapping to the wound
Now that you know the importance of sanitizing a wound before wrapping it, you are prepared to clean and care for an open wound. Check out American Hospital Supply’s selection of wound care supplies that will provide you with all the essentials to take care of a wound and promote the process of healing.
