Page 107 - Participant Manual

Treatment of Infection

Proper wound care helps to lower the risk for infection,
but sometimes infections develop anyway. An untreated
wound infection can cause complications, including delayed
wound healing; infection of nearby skin (cellulitis) or bone
(osteomyelitis); or infection throughout the body (sepsis, which
can be fatal). See your healthcare provider if you notice signs
and symptoms of infection or if the wound does not seem to be
healing. Signs and symptoms of an infected wound may include:
■ Increased pain, swelling, redness or warmth in
the area of the wound.

■ Red streaks extending from the area of the
wound.

■ Pus (a thick yellow or green fluid) draining
from the wound.
■ Fever.

The healthcare provider may use advanced wound-care
strategies, antibiotics or both to eliminate the infection and
promote wound healing.

Myth-Information. Myth: Letting a wound “breathe” by exposing it to air helps it to heal. A better
strategy to promote wound healing is to keep the wound moist (with an antibiotic ointment, cream or
gel) and covered (under a dressing and bandage).

Major Open Wounds

A major open wound (for example, one
that involves extensive tissue damage or is
bleeding heavily or uncontrollably) requires
prompt action. Call 9-1-1 or the designated
emergency number immediately and then
© 2011, 2016 The American National Red Cross. All rights reserved.
take steps to control the bleeding until help
arrives.

Applying Direct Pressure

Put on latex-free disposable gloves and
other personal protective equipment (PPE)
as necessary (for example, if blood is
spurting, you may need to wear eye and
face protection). Cover the area with a

Chapter 6 Traumatic Injuries | 98 | First Aid/CPR/AED Participant’s Manual Chapter 6 Traumatic Injuries | 99 | First Aid/CPR/AED Participant’s Manual