How To Prevent A Minor Cut From Getting Infected?

By Author: medguard
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Cutting yourself while chopping fruits or getting scratched while playing a sport is common. These incidents can happen at any time and anywhere. However, what's worse is that people consider these cuts as normal injuries, thinking they will heal on their own. But this is when people mistake or take their health for granted. 
The truth is- a wound or cut if left untreated, can lead to major complications. No wonder why many people carry a first-aid dressing kit with them everywhere. However, the question is- how to prevent a minor cut from being infected? Well, here is everything you need to know. 
How to Know If You Have a Wound Infection?
A wound infection is when bacteria or germs enter a cut or damaged skin. In some cases, the infection affects only the skin but sometimes it can also spread deeper to the tissues. If left unattended, it may cause major complications to the organs near the skin. 
Without the right care of your wound, the symptoms may worsen and lead to infections. Wondering how to know ...
... if you are infected? Well, here are the signs that you must be aware of:

The wound starts to pain 
It is taking longer time to improve than required
The skin near the wound gets warm, painful, swollen or red
The wound is discharging blood or pus 
The wound emits a foul odour 

In severe cases, the infection may start showing signs like spread of excessive redness, feeling unwell, pains and aches, body temperature rises, etc. Therefore, it is important to take care of your wound like changing dressing pads from time to time to avoid complications. 
Steps to Prevent Your Cut from Getting Infected
Now that you know how to identify your wound infection, wondering how to stop it from happening? Well, here are the simple steps to follow:
 

Wash Your Hands

 
When you or someone gets injured, the first thing a person does is run for a first-aid dressing kit. However, this is where they make a huge mistake. One must, instead, first wash his/her hands. Handling or applying any first aid to an open wound directly may transfer germs instantly. Therefore, to prevent infections, one must maintain the cleanliness of the incision area. You can use an anti-bacterial hand wash, for better protection.
 

Stop the Bleeding 

 
The next step is to stop the bleeding. Even though smaller wounds or abrasions stop bleeding on their own, this isn't the same for cuts, especially deeper ones. Cuts may bleed more heavily since the hand and head have a large number of blood vessels. In such cases, gently press a clean cloth or a bandage against the wound. 
 

Clean the Cut

 
Once the bleeding has stopped, now you must rinse the cut with cold water. This helps in getting rid of any grime or debris. Continue to run water over the afflicted area or clean the wound with soapy water. Make sure to not use cleaning products like iodine or hydrogen peroxide as it may cause discomfort. 
 

Apply a Cream

 
Once washed, now you must apply a cream to promote healing and minimize scarring. You can use an antibiotic cream or apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly. This will keep the area germ-free and clean. However, if you see signs of rashes, stop using the ointment. 
 

Cover Your Cut

 
This is again a crucial step when it comes to preventing your cut from getting infected. To keep your cut protected, you must cover it using gauze, adhesive tape or a bandage. However, if the cut is small or located where it won't get dirty or rub against your clothing, then leave it exposed. Also, make sure to change your dressing pads every day, or frequently if it gets unclean. 
 

Visit a Doctor 

 
Last but not least, never hesitate to take the injured person to the nearest hospital if bleeding heavily or if the cut is severe. To know if a person seeks immediate medical attention, look for signs like:

Clammy skin
Too fast/too low heartbeat 
Unusual or uneven breathing 
Losing consciousness 
Bodily weakness 

Remember, it is not a great idea to implement basic first aid to cuts that need extensive care or immediate attention. 
The Solution to All Your First-aid Needs
MedGuard is your ultimate destination for first aid supplies. From adhesive bandages, CPR pocket masks and first-aid dressing kits to equipment for emergencies, we have it all. To cater to your bulk orders, we have everything well-stocked. 
We are renowned for offering nothing but high-quality first-aid solutions. What's more? You tell us the items you want and we can bring you a customised easy-to-carry first aid box. For more, you can contact us today without any hesitation. 
Read More: SIGNIFICANCE OF CLEANING AND PROTECTING WOUND FOR BETTER HEALING

Paul Clifford is the Owner & CEO of Medguard. He aims to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure of the country by supplying medical devices and consumable products of top-notch quality.