¿Cómo atender una herida o quemadura? #Limpieza
Introduction to Wound and Burn Cleaning
Understanding Wounds
- A wound is defined as the loss of continuity of the skin or mucosa, which can result from physical or chemical agents.
Initial Assessment and Priorities
- In cases of active bleeding, immediate attention to stop the bleeding is crucial. If there is no active bleeding, focus on keeping the wound clean and covered to prevent contamination and infection.
- Before providing assistance, evaluate the scene for safety, wear personal protective equipment (PPE), activate emergency medical services (EMS), and perform a primary evaluation to identify any wounds present.
Cleaning Techniques for Wounds
- Vertical Technique: Apply neutral soap on gauze moistened with water or sterile solution; sweep from top to bottom in one direction without reusing the contaminated side of the gauze.
- Circular Technique: Use neutral soap on gauze moistened with water or sterile solution; make circular motions from inside to outside of the wound while avoiding contact with contaminated areas.
Covering the Wound