Wound Care: Should I Keep My Wound Covered or Uncovered?

Are you wondering how to take care of your wound? wound care is critical to preventing further harm, even if the injury is minor. A wound refers to a break in the skin, which can include anything from a papercut to a life-threatening injury.

Wounds are categorized into four different types: Abrasions, lacerations, punctures and avulsions. The type of wound you have will ultimately determine the kind of care your wound will need so that it can heal quickly and completely.

Wound care

Minor wounds can be addressed at home. You will need to gently wash the wound to remove any blood or dirt. The wound will then need to be disinfected to remove bacteria that could enter the bloodstream. After washing and disinfecting the wound, wrap a clean bandage around the area. The bandage should be snug enough to stay in its place but not so tight that it prevents the injury from healing.

If a wound is bleeding, it is necessary to apply gentle yet firm pressure to the area until the bleeding stops. Elevating the wound also helps to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding does not stop within 20 minutes, then it is necessary to see a medical professional for treatment. Another reason that requires professional medical treatment includes wounds that are one-half inch or deeper into the skin.

Covered or uncovered?

Wounds need to be covered so that they can heal properly. When a wound is left uncovered, the new surface cells that are being created can easily dry out. When these important cells dry out, it tends to slow down the healing process.

A wound should be covered using a clean bandage. Before placing the bandage on your skin, apply a thin layer of topical antibiotic ointment over the wound. This ointment provides two benefits. The first benefit is that it will help keep the wound from becoming infected. The second benefit is that wounds heal better when they have a little moisture.

Once the wound has formed a scab, there is no longer the need to cover it with a bandage as the scab now acts as a protective barrier. Keep the area clean, but be gentle so that you do not accidentally remove the scab.

Signs of infection

Since a wound is an opening in the skin, bacteria can easily enter your body. An infection will not only complicate the healing process, but it can also cause problems for your entire body. Keep an eye on your wound to indicators that it is infected. Visit a physician for wound care if you see any of the following signs of infection:

• Redness around the wound
• Swelling and sensitivity
• Drainage or pus
• Fever or chills

Need assistance with wound care?

If you have a wound that is taking a long time to heal or has become infected, visit our urgent care center as soon as possible. We can examine the injury and recommend the optimal wound care treatment plan. 

Call us today at (703) 673-1558 for more information from Millennium Medical Care Manassas.

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