Emergency Wound Care After a Natural Disaster
(NOTE: Health professionals should see
Emergency Wound Management for Healthcare Professionals.)
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:
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There is a foreign object embedded in the wound;
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The wound is at special risk of infection (such as a dog bite or a puncture by
a dirty object);
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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
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Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water if possible.
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Avoid touching the wound with your fingers while treating it (if possible, use
disposable, latex gloves).
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Remove obstructive jewelry and clothing from the injured body part.
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Apply direct pressure to any bleeding wound to control bleeding.
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Clean the wound after bleeding has stopped.
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Examine wounds for dirt and foreign objects.
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Gently flood the wound with bottled water or clean running water (if available,
saline solution is preferred).
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Gently clean around the wound with soap and clean water.
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Pat dry and apply an adhesive bandage or dry clean cloth.
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Leave unclean wounds, bites, and punctures open. Wounds that are not cleaned
correctly can trap bacteria and result in infection.
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Provide pain relievers when possible.
Other Considerations
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Expect a variety of infection types from wounds exposed to standing water, sea
life, and ocean water.
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Wounds in contact with soil and sand can become infected.
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Puncture wounds can carry bits of clothing and dirt into wounds and result in
infection.
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Crush injuries are more likely to become infected than wounds from cuts.
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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.