Puncture Wounds

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Medindia » First Aid » First Aid-Puncture Wounds

Puncture Wounds - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

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   Overview
   Risk Factors
   Causes
    Symptoms
   Treatment
   Consult a Doctor
   Prevention

Overview

Puncture wounds are injuries caused by sharp objects

These wounds carry dirt and germs deep into the tissues

Increases the risk of infection

Most wounds are minor and may be treated at home

Some punctures are made by a health professional for disease treatment

Even if the wound is closed, puncture wounds require treatment

Risk Factors

Health professionals
Drug Abusers

Causes Puncture wound can be caused by -

Nails
Needles
Teeth
Objects like ice picks, bullets
Animals, especially pets

Symptoms

Pain
Bleeding
Bruising
Swelling

Treatment

Stop the bleeding applying gentle pressure
Clean the wound
Try to remove embedded debris carefully
Soak wound in warm water for 20 minutes
This should be done 2-3 times a day
Pat the area dry
Apply an antibiotic cream
Apply a bandage
If the bandage needs to be changed, unwrap carefully
If the bandage sticks to the body, use warm water to loosen it
Pat dry and apply fresh bandage
Change the dressing regularly
Try to keep the wound above the level of your heart, for 24 hrs
This quickens healing
Rest for 3-5 days
Look out for infection
Take a Tetanus Toxoid injection, if you have not taken it in 5 years

Consult a Doctor In case of-

Human/animal bite
High temperature
Bleeding
Worsening Pain
Numbness
Swelling
Redness
Pus
Bad odor

Prevention

Health professionals should wear gloves whenever required

Be careful while handling needles/other sharp objects

Exercise caution while handling pets

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY(ICE)-Life Saving Measures

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Posted by: SecretEver, Singapore Posted on: 6/16/2009 For animal bites , it is best and advised for the patient to consult a doctor and check for rabies. Its better to be safe than sorry.