How to Use a Moist Compress on a Wound

A deep puncture wound can become serious very quickly and requires immediate treatment. Regardless of whether you are a trained medical professional, you still have the ability to prevent further damage and infection by using basic first aid. The uses of a moist compress are incredibly versatile and, according to the National Institute of Health, can treat conditions ranging from spider bites to puncture wounds. Applying a moistened compress properly isn't difficult but does require you to understand and follow certain key steps.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze
• Cool water
• Towel

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands and put on rubber gloves before handling either the compress material or the patient. This will protect both of you from infection.

• 2

  Run the compress material under cool water. For smaller wounds use gauze. For a larger wound, use a clean towel.

• 3

  Lay the compress over the open wound and gently apply pressure. It is critical that you apply firm but gentle pressure to avoid causing further damage. If organs, bones or ligaments are visible, lay the compress on top and apply gentle pressure without forcing anything back into the body.

• 4

  Using the pads of your fingers, or your whole hand if necessary, to continue applying pressure until a medical professional arrives.

• 5

  Apply more compresses over the original if the bleeding continues. Never remove and replace the first compress during heavy bleeding. Continue layering towels until the blood stops seeping through the outermost compress.