Taking care of cuts and scrapes

Wound infections occur when harmful microorganisms invade a break in the skin or underlying tissues, leading to delayed healing and potential complications.

Materials to download, in English and Welsh:

➡️ Story Time: Angels’ Glow at the Battle of Shiloh

Examples for common organisms causing wound infections are bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA), Streptococcus species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and E. coli.

Symptoms of wound infections typically include redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, pain and tenderness. There may be pus or other discharge, foul odour and sometimes fever.

If untreated, infections can spread locally or systemically, causing serious conditions like sepsis.

Treatment focuses on proper wound care, including cleaning the wound thoroughly with sterile saline or antiseptics, removing dead tissue   and applying appropriate dressings. Antibiotics may be prescribed based on the type and severity of infection, either topically or systemically. In some cases, drainage of abscesses is necessary.

Prevention involves good hygiene practices: washing hands before and after wound care, keeping the wound clean and dry, changing dressings regularly and avoiding contamination.

Vaccinations like tetanus shots can protect against specific wound-related infections. Early identification and treatment are key to preventing complications and promoting healing.