How to Clean and Dress a Wound for Faster Healing

Wounds, however minor they may seem, can get worse and become life-threatening if not taken care of properly.

While there are thousands of over the counter products that promise to help a wound heal faster, you can easily take care of your wound using readily available materials.

 

Here is how to go about it:

 

Clean

• First things first, you need to clean the wound to reduce chances of bacteria getting in and infecting it. Cleaning will also help get rid of debris that may hinder the healing process.
• If the wound is bleeding, hold a sterile gauze over it until it stops bleeding.
• Place the wounded part under warm running water, gently cleaning the area around it using a clean cloth or cotton swab.
• You can make a mild solution of soap and water to enhance cleaning properties.

Disinfect

• Make a saline solution to help get rid of bacteria.
• Stir a teaspoon of regular salt in half litre of warm water. Run the solution over the wound or dab gently using a cotton swab.
• Once it is clean, apply natural honey on the wound to help moisturise and protect it from bacterial infection.

Cover

• Tape an adhesive wound dressing or bandage over the wound.
• The bandage should cover the entire wound and the immediate area to reduce chances of agitation or dirt getting in.
• It is advisable to change at the bandage at least every 12 hours, or sooner if it gets dirty.

The above procedure is appropriate for minor wounds. Deep or extensive cuts will require urgent medical attention.

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In addition, wounds with deeply embedded objects such as glass or metal will need to be checked by a doctor.