How do I dress a wound? | First aid for wounds

How do I dress a wound?

The dressing of a wound in first aid consists essentially of two elements. The necessary utensils as well as corresponding explanations are usually found in a first aid kit. In case of bleeding wounds, the application of a pressure bandage is indicated.

After fixing the wound dressing with one or two layers of the gauze bandage, a pressure pad is applied and this is wrapped into the bandage with a taut pull. Another gauze bandage pack or, in case of doubt, any other suitable item can be selected as a pressure pad. Injuries to the arms or legs should then be elevated by the patient.

It is recommended that a first aid course be held regularly to learn or refresh the above-mentioned measures so that the patient can act safely and correctly in an emergency.

• On the one hand, the wound should be completely covered by a sterile dressing (preferably sterile compresses from a first-aid kit). If possible, these should only be grasped at the corners and not touch the area that is to lie against the wound.
• The second step is to fix the support in position and apply the actual bandage.

  To do this, wrap one or more gauze bandages several times around the covered wound. The bandage should be wrapped tightly enough so that it does not slip, but not so tightly that blood cannot flow (you can tell by the fact that the fingers or toes turn blue). An alternative to the wrapping bandage is to fix the wound dressing with plasters.

First aid for sore nipples

Sore nipples affect mainly nursing mothers, especially at the beginning of the breastfeeding period. For acutely sore nipples, warm water compresses that are applied directly help. In addition, after breastfeeding you can spread out some breast milk on the nipples and let it dry.

In case of severe irritation or even open wounds, some wool grease can be applied carefully. When choosing clothing, care should be taken to ensure air-permeable tops. For example, a bra should be avoided at home if possible to avoid congestion heat, pressure and friction.

It is particularly important to identify the cause of sore nipples to prevent them from getting worse or recurring. The most common cause is that the baby has not been applied correctly. Many mothers think that pain during breastfeeding is normal and accept it.

Instead, if pain occurs, breastfeeding should be interrupted and the baby should be repositioned. This is the best way to prevent the appearance of sore nipples. If pain occurs despite correct application technique, there are many other, rare causes. These are best recognized and eliminated by a presentation and examination at the gynecologist or at a help center for nursing mothers. This might also be of interest to you: Inflammation of the nipple