Dislocation and First Aid Guide PDF

ointment to the wound after cleaning to keep the surface moist. Certain ointments may cause a mild rash. Ifa rash appears, stop using the ointment. Cover the wound. Bandages help keep the wound clean and harmful bacteria out. Change the dressing. Change the dressing at least...

ointment to the wound after cleaning to keep the surface moist. Certain ointments may cause a mild rash. Ifa rash appears, stop using the ointment. Cover the wound. Bandages help keep the wound clean and harmful bacteria out. Change the dressing. Change the dressing at least daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty. If allergic to bandage adhesive, switch to sterile gauze with paper tape, gauze roll or a loose elastic bandage. When a sufficient scab has formed, uncover the wound so it is exposed to open air. ‘This will speed healing time. Get stitches for deep wounds. Stitches are usually required fora wound that is more than 44 inch deep, gaping or jagged edged or has fat or muscle protruding. To reduce the risk of infection, proper closure is needed. Watch for infection. See a doctor if the wound ts not healing or there is redness, increasing pain, drainage, warmth, or swelling. Get a tetanus shot. Doctors advise you get a tetanus shot every 10 years. A doctor may suggest getting a tetanus shot booster if the wound is deep or dirty and your last shot was more than five years ago. Ifa shot is prescribed, get it within 48 hours of the injury. Dislocation: First Aid According to the Mayo Clinic, a dislocation is an injury in which the ends of your bones are forced from their normal positions. A blow or fall is usually the major cause but it could also be due to a disease, for example, rheumatoid arthritis. Dislocations may occur in major joints (shoulder, hip, knee, elbow, or ankle) or in smaller ones (finger, toe). ‘The injury will temporarily deform and tmmobilize your joint and may result in sudden and severe pain and swelling. Returning your bones to their original positions requires immediate medical atten- tion. If you believe you have dislocated a joint: « Get medical help immediately. * Do not move or force a dislocated joint back into place. ‘This can damage the joint and the surrounding muscles, ligaments, 12?