How to Change Wound Dressings

Wound dressings need to be changed frequently to promote healing and prevent infection. This can be painful, but is an extremely important part of the healing process. Depending on the location of the wound, you may or may not be able to change your own dressings. Always be sure to follow your doctor's instructions when caring for wounds, including instructions for keeping wounds clean, taking any prescribed medications and making followup appointments.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial soap
• Paper towels
• 1/2 gallon distilled water
• 4 tsp. table salt
• Bowl
• Plastic syringe
• Gauze
• Clean towel
• New wound dressing
• Medical tape (if necessary)

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix the distilled water with the salt to form a saline solution. Set aside in a bowl.

• 2

  Wash your hands thoroughly with an antibacterial soap to prevent infecting the wound.

• 3

  Peel the the wound dressing from the skin. Peel slowly, and in the direction of hair growth to help lessen pain.

• 4

  Dispose of the old dressing and wash your hands again.

• 5

  Use the saline solution and a plastic syringe to rinse the wound. Place paper towels under the wound to absorb drainage.

• 6

  Use gauze to gently remove any debris that surrounds the wound and then dry the wound with a clean towel.

• 7

  Open the package containing the new dressing and carefully apply the dressing to the wound, starting with the corner.

• 8

  Use medical tape to secure the new dressing if necessary.