Wounds

Types of wounds include the following:

1. Laceration: a tear in the skin or jagged-edged wound
2. Abrasion: scrape of the surface of the skin or the mucous membrane
3. Incision: a straight cut made with a cutting instrument
4. Puncture: an opening in the skin make by a sharp, pointed object such as a nail
5. Avulsion: forcible tearing of a flap of skin
6. Contusion: nonpenetrating wound resulting in bleeding beneath the skin and into the tissue

Minor wounds are easily treated in the outpatient setting. The goal of treatment of wounds is to promote healing and prevent infection. Wound treatment measures include the following.

1. Examine the wound for foreign bodies. Superficial wounds can be washed with soap and water.
2. Lacerations and incisions can be irrigated with water or normal saline. If the wounds need to be sutured, prepare the skin for a sterile procedure.
3. Puncture wounds must be explored for debris and washed well to remove microorganisms.
4. Tetanus injection may be necessary if boosters have not been kept up to date.
5. Give the patient written information about how to care for her wound and signs and symptoms of infection, which are:
   • Redness and swelling
   • Drainage from the wound
   • Increase in pain
   • Fever
   • Heat and tenderness at the wound site
6. Make sure the patient has a follow-up appointment if sutures need to be removed.