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] These wounds are most likely to become dangerously infected:
- dirty wounds, or wounds made with dirty objects
- puncture wounds and other deep wounds that do not bleed much
- wounds made where animals are kept: in corrals, pig pens, etc.
- large wounds with severe mashing or bruising
- bites, especially from pigs, dogs, or people
- bullet wounds
The danger of tetanus is very great in people who have not been vaccinated against this deadly disease within the last ten years.
[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.
