1. Definition
What is wound infection?
When you or your child has a wound on their body, you should watch for signs of infection in the area of the wound. An infected wound must be given antibiotics immediately so that it does not get worse. Dirty wounds will usually become infected about 24-72 hours after the wound occurs.
What are the signs and symptoms?
The infected wound will usually turn red, swollen, painful, and suppurate. However, you should know that if the redness is only on the edge of the wound and is only 2-3 mm wide, this is normal, especially if your cut was recently sutured. You just need to make sure that the red area doesn't spread.
The aches and pains are also normal, the pain and swelling are usually worst on the second day and will subside after that. If the infection spreads beyond the wound area, it will spread along the lymph ducts and cause a reddish line visible on the trowel. If the infection reaches the bloodstream which is also known as blood poisoning, then usually the body will have a fever. The healing process usually causes mild swelling and pain in the lymph nodes in the injured area.
2. How to handle
What should I do?
Use a compress soaked in warm salted water (2 teaspoons of salt per liter of water) for 15 minutes 3 times a day. Dry the area thoroughly after compressing it. Never soak a wound with stitches, as this increases the risk of infection.
When should I see a doctor?
Call your doctor immediately if:
- The wound is very painful
- Have a high fever (more than 38 ° C).
- A red line appears on the injured area
- Wound infection occurs on the face area.
Although not as urgent as the symptoms above, you still need to see a doctor if:
- There is pus in the wound, or there is pus draining from the wound site
- There were pimples starting to appear on the stitched wound
- The wound became more painful on the second day
- The redness on the skin begins to spread
- You feel your condition is getting worse
3. Prevention
Immediately clean the wound with soap and water for 5 to 10 minutes to remove dirt and bacteria. Soak the puncture wound in warm soapy water for 15 minutes. Do this as soon as possible after the injury occurs because the longer you delay it, the less benefit you will get from cleaning the wound. Apply the antibiotic ointment when you are done cleaning the wound. In addition, teach your child not to scratch or touch insect bites, scabs, or other irritated areas of the skin. Do not smell open wounds, as they will be contaminated with many germs from your mouth.
