Whether you have a cut, a graze, a burn, or a wound from a surgery, Dependable Nursing Home Health Services, Inc., a well-known provider of home health services in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, offers the following general wound care guidelines. However, please note that these are just general tips and you should still consult with your healthcare professional.
1. Keep it covered
Make sure that your wound is properly dressed and covered. Dressings help new skin and tissue growth, and it can protect your wound from further infection and damage. Furthermore, take note that:
- An open wound will heal better if it is kept moist and cleaned well.
- A closed wound (e.g. after a surgical procedure) will heal better if it is kept dry and clean.
2. Keep it clean
Make sure that you keep your wound, and the area surrounding it, clean. Also, make sure to regularly change your bandages. If you are asked to wash your wound, remember that warm water is effective in cleansing it and avoid getting soap on your wound as much as possible. Rinse it well and re-cover it with new bandages.
3. Keep it free from infection
To keep your wound free from infection, here are some tips you can follow:
- Wash anything that comes into contact with your skin.
- Use vinyl or latex gloves if touching or cleaning the wound surface.
- Replace your bandages regularly.
- Avoid antibiotic ointments.
- To prevent irritation and maintain moisture, use hypoallergenic lotions with antibacterial agents on the skin surrounding your wound.
Other Tips
Aside from the guidelines mentioned above, here are some general wound care tips that you should keep in mind:
4. A Healthy Diet
Did you know that your diet also plays an important factor in wound healing? To improve wound healing, your body needs increased amounts of vitamins A, C, and E, protein, calories, and zinc. Choose fruits and vegetables, poultry and lean meats, dairy products, and cereals.
5. Plenty of Sleep and Rest
According to a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, people who don’t get enough sleep have fewer fibroblasts and capillary vessels – both of which are vital for recovery. This study suggests that poor sleep may hinder the wound healing process. So, make sure to get plenty of sleep and rest during your recovery!
For more wound, nursing care, and other home health care services, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are available to serve you and your family.
