February 10, 2012
Topics A-Z Children's Health Scrapes infection
Scrapes infection |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: How can u tell if a minor scrape becomes infected? Dear Esmeralda: I understand your concern about infected abrasions. Infection can develop when a wound is contaminated with dirt and bacteria. Although any wound can become infected, infection is particularly likely in deep scrapes, which grind dirt into the skin, and in puncture wounds, which introduce contamination deep under the skin. Also, wounds that contain foreign material almost always become infected. The longer a wound remains contaminated, the more likely it is that infection will develop. To prevent infection, dirt and particles are removed and the wound is washed. Large, visible particles are picked off. Smaller dirt and particles that cannot be seen are removed by washing with mild soap and tap water. Dirt and particles that remain after washing often can be removed with a more highly pressured stream of warm tap water. Scrubbing is required to clean deep scrapes. If a wound is very small, it can be kept closed with certain commercially available tapes. Stitches may be needed for deep or large cuts. After cleaning and, if necessary, closing the wound, antibiotic ointment and a bandage are applied. If your injury looks swollen, red and pus is oozing an infection might be present and you might want to consult your primary care physician for an evaluation and probable prescription of antibiotics, especially if you develop fever and malaise. I wish you prompt recovery. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 26 May 2010 ) |
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