The risk for injury during and after a hurricane and other natural disasters is high. Prompt first aid can help heal small wounds and prevent infection. Tetanus is a potential health threat for persons who have open wounds.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible if:

• There is a foreign object embedded in the wound;
• The wound is at special risk of infection (such as a dog bite or a puncture by a dirty object);
• An old wound shows signs of becoming infected (increased pain and soreness, swelling, redness, draining, or you develop a fever).

How to Care for Minor Wounds

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water if possible.
• Avoid touching the wound with your fingers while treating it (if possible, use disposable, latex gloves).
• Remove obstructive jewelry and clothing from the injured body part.
• Apply direct pressure to any bleeding wound to control bleeding.
• Clean the wound after bleeding has stopped.
  • Examine wounds for dirt and foreign objects.
  • Gently flood the wound with bottled water or clean running water (if available, saline solution is preferred).
  • Gently clean around the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Pat dry and apply an adhesive bandage or dry clean cloth.
• Leave unclean wounds, bites, and punctures open. Wounds that are not cleaned correctly can trap bacteria and result in infection.
• Provide pain relievers when possible.

Other Considerations

• Expect a variety of infection types from wounds exposed to standing water, sea life, and ocean water.
• Wounds in contact with soil and sand can become infected.
• Puncture wounds can carry bits of clothing and dirt into wounds and result in infection.
• Crush injuries are more likely to become infected than wounds from cuts.
• Take steps to prevent tetanus.

If you have wounds, you should be evaluated for a tetanus immunization. If you receive a puncture wound or a wound contaminated with feces, soil, or saliva, have a health care professional determine whether a tetanus booster is necessary based on individual records.

References

Krohmer, J.R., Rapp M.T. & American College of Emergency Physicians.(2001). First aid manual: A comprehensive guide to treating emergency victims of all ages in any situation. (3 rd ed.) New York : Dorling Kindersley Limited.

Tintinalli, J.E., Kelen, G.D., Stapczynski, J.S., & American College of Emergency Physicians. (2004). Emergency medicine: A comprehensive guide. (6th ed.) New York : McGraw-Hill.

_{Source: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention}