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Procedures for Wound Cleansing

Cleaning a wound properly is important for several reasons. Properly cleaning a wound can help lower the risk of infections from organisms in the skin or clothing, for example. It will also help the wound heal properly and at a faster rate than one that is not properly cleansed. Learn the proper procedures for cleansing a wound.

  1. Wound Assessment

    • To care for a wound properly, you must first decide on the severity of the wound to be able to administer the proper cleansing procedure. It is important to know that you should clean a wound when it first occurs, especially if dirt is present. If there is matter oozing from the wound and if fabric, such as fibers of cotton or gauze, is left behind after previously dressing the wound, these can delay the healing process.

    Cleansing Solutions

    • Before treating a wound, make sure your hands are clean. Wash them with soap and warm water. If sterile gloves are available, wear them when treating the wound. Depending on your wound assessment, saline, potable water or antiseptic solutions should be used as a disinfectant and to prevent the growth of microorganisms that will slow or stop the healing process. Alternately, mild soap and water may also be used to clean the wound. Follow this with blotting the wound dry with sterile gauze pads. When cleaning the wound, make sure to clean the surrounding areas as well because nearby bacteria may travel to the wound, causing an infection.

    Protecting the Wound

    • When the wound has been thoroughly cleansed, use an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin or Bacitracin to protect against infection. Use sterile gauze secured with first-aid tape to cover the wound. This will protect it from dirt and germs as well as from being accidentally scratched or scraped. Cut a piece of gauze large enough to cover the wound and be sure you do not touch the center of the gauze as it can lead to further contamination. Protecting a wound by covering it is important. It allows the wound to heal much faster than one that uncovered and prevents the formation of a scab, which may lead to scarring.

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