PHARMACY - General Health information

first aid

Cuts & Abrasions
Most cuts and abrasions (grazes) can be treated very simply. For children it is often the fright of getting the injury, not the pain that upsets them. Abrasions usually result from rubbing or friction, causing grazes or blisters. Avoid using antiseptics on large open wounds because they can be absorbed into the body through the broken skin. Correct dilution of antiseptics is important as high concentrations, may damage the tissue and prolonged use delays the healing.

Tips & Advice for customers:

• Watch the affected area for signs of infection, such as redness spreading out from the wound
• Before applying a dressing make sure that the cut or abrasion is clean
• Be careful if using an antiseptic cream. The cream may not kill the bacteria, creating a good environment for resistant bacteria to grow, especially if the area is covered with a dressing
• Do not put irritating agents on the wound- keep cleansing and dressings simple
• Do not pick the scabs off as the wound heals- this can cause scarring. Moisten crusty scabs with saline

When to seek further professional advice:

• Copious bleeding
• Cuts or abrasions are very extensive, very deep, or very dirty
• Foreign objects are deeply embedded in the cut or are unable to be easily removed
• The wound and the surrounding area is very painful and warm
• There are fever or flu like symptoms present
• Allergies, particularly to topical agents, for example iodine, are present
• The affected area is very red, especially if pus is present
• The person is not covered by a tetanus vaccination

Vitamin supplement suggestions:

• Vitamin C plus bioflavonoids
• Zinc complex