Infected wounds
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[edit] Recognizing infected wounds
[edit] A wound is infected if:
- it becomes red, swollen, hot, and painful,
- it has pus,
- or it begins to smell bad.
[edit] The infection is spreading to other parts of the body if:
- it causes fever,
- there is a red line above the wound,
- or if lymph nodes become swollen and tender.
Lymph nodes - often called 'glands' - are little traps for germs that form small lumps under the skin when they get infected.
- Swollen lymph nodes behind the ear are a sign of an infection on the head or scalp, often caused by sores or lice.
- Swollen nodes below the ear and on the neck indicate infections of the ear, face, or head.
- Swollen nodes below the jaw indicate infections of the teeth or throat.
- Swollen nodes in the armpuit indicate an infection of the arm, head, or breast (or sometimes breast cancer).
- Swollen nodes in the groin indicate an infection of the leg, foot, genitals, or anus.
[edit] First aid treatment of infected wounds
- Put hot compresses over the wound for 20 minutes 4 times a day. Or hold an infected hand or foot in a bucket of hot water.
- Keep the infected part at rest and elevated (raised above the level of the heart).
- If the infection is severe or the person has not been vaccinated against tetanus, Get the person to a health center.
Warning: If the wound has a bad smell, if brown or gray liquid oozes out, or if the skin around it turns black and forms air bubbles or blisters, this may be gangrene. Get the person to a hospital immediately.
See Wounds that are likely to become dangerously infected.
[edit] Notes
This material is intended as a training supplement. Reading this material is no substitute for first aid / medical training with a qualified trainer. We encourage you to pursue ongoing education, reviewing and upgrading your skills-- for the safety of both yourself and anyone you treat.
