Wound Check: Care Instructions

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor told you how to care for your wound, follow those instructions. If you didn't get instructions, follow this general advice for minor wounds:
  • Wash your hands before and after touching the wound.
  • Keep the wound dry for the first 24 to 48 hours or until your doctor says. After this, wash the area daily with mild soap and water. Pat it dry.
  • You may cover the wound with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
  • Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage daily.
  • Avoid using an antibiotic ointment unless your doctor recommends it.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• If you have stitches, do not remove them on your own. Your doctor will tell you when to come back to have them removed.
• If you have tape strips, leave them on until they fall off.
• If possible, prop up the injured area on a pillow anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new pain, or the pain gets worse.
• The skin near the wound is cold or pale or changes color.
• You have tingling, weakness, or numbness near the wound.
• The wound starts to bleed, and blood soaks through the bandage. Oozing small amounts of blood is normal.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the wound.
  • Pus draining from the wound.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.