MINOR WOUND S AND INJURI E S = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = == = = = MINOR W O UND S AND INJURIES
Dressings and Bandages
Cuts and Scrapes (Abrasions) Cuts may be caused by knives, razors, or broken glass. An abrasion is a wound that occurs as a result of the outer layers of the skin being rubbed or scraped off. Abrasions may happen when the skin is scraped against a hard surface, for example, when a bicyclist falls onto the pavement. The wound may not bleed very much. The greatest danger lies in contamination and possible infection of the wound. To protect yourself from cuts and scrapes, dress appropriately for the activity-for instance, jeans, boots, gloves, longsleeved shirt. A few simple precautions can help you avoid th e pain of the treatment and heali ng process. Treat a minor cut or scrape by flu shing the area with clean water for at least five minutes, or until all foreign matter appears to be washed away. You may need to scrub the area gently. Apply triple antibiotic ointment if th e person has no known allergies or sensitivities to the medication, and then cover with a dry, sterile dressing and bandage or with an adhesive bandage.
34
FIRST AID
After cleaning a wound in which the skin has been broken, protect it with a dressing. A dressing is a protective covering placed over a wound that helps to control bleeding and absorb blood and wound secretions. Sterile dressings are free from germs and should be used to dress wounds whenever possible. If a sterile dressing is not available, use the cleanest cloth you have. A bandage is a strip of material used to hold a dressing or splint in place. It helps immobilize, support, and protect the injury. Common bandages include rolls of gauze, elastic bandages, and triangular bandages. Combination dressing-bandages include adhesive strips with attached gauze pads. Secure the dressing with a bandage or tape . Watch for swelling, color changes, or coldness of the fingertips or toes. If any of these symptoms appear, it is a signal that circulation is being compromised . Loosen bandages if the victim complains of tingling or numbness. When using a bandage to secure a dressing, be sure not to wrap it too tightly. Be sure the person's fingertips or toes are accessible when a splint or bandage is applied to the arm or leg so you can check for circulation beyond the injury. When the weather is cold, keep th e victim 's hands and feet covered with mittens or socks. Remove mittens or socks frequently to check that circulation is not being restricted .
To dress and bandage a wound, use a dressing large enough to extend an inch or more beyond the edge of the w ound. Hold the dressing over the wound and lower it directly into place. If the dressing slips onto the surrounding skin before it has been anchored, discard it and use a fresh dressing .
FIRST AID
35
