Diagnosis
Whether a pathogen creates an infection is usually dependent on the person’s immune system. Risks are increased when the wound is in a high microscopic load area of the body, when the patient has a chronic condition such as diabetes or vascular disease, or when poor or conflicting wound care is given. Since wounds are among the most common conditions treated conditions in clinics and hospitals and can even lead to death, diagnosing and treating wounds should be an essential objective for health care professionals.
Treatment
These tips can enable you to care for your minor cuts and scratches:
- Wash your hands. This avoids infection.
- Stop the bleeding
- Clean the injury with water, and avoid using hydrogen peroxide and iodine which may add to the irritation
- Apply an antibiotic or petroleum jelly
- Cover the wound with a clean bandage
- Change the dressing every day or if the bandage becomes wet or messy.
- Get a tetanus shot
Watch for any symptoms of infection. See a doctor if you see unusual symptoms.