A break or opening in the skin results due to an injury such as cut or laceration. This laceration may be deep or near the surface, smooth or jagged. Sometimes it injures deep tissues like tendons, ligaments, muscles, nerves, blood vessels or even bone. A wound made by a sharp object is known as a puncture. First Aid for puncture wounds could help recover patient faster.
The major symptoms of puncture wounds may include –
Severe bleeding, Impaired function at the wound site and Pain.
While administering first aid for puncture wounds, if the patient is bleeding profusely, it is important that the emergency services are called immediately. However minor cuts and wounds can be treated at home.
Before applying first aid for puncture wounds to the patient, it is important to wash hands thoroughly preferably with antibacterial cleanser so as to prevent infection.
The cut should be washed properly using warm water and mild soap.
To stop bleeding, use direct pressure.
Apply antibacterial tube or ointment and wrap a clean bandage on the wound in such a way that it does not stick to the wound.
While applying first aid for minor wounds, for 5 minutes use a stream of water to rinse the puncture wound and then wash it with soap.
Check the wound and look if there is something inside the wound.
In case there is something in the wound do not try to pull it out rather call emergency or take the victim to the nearest hospital.
Apply antibacterial gel or ointment on the wound and wrap it gently with a clean bandage.
Even if you cannot see any dirt or any object inside the wound, do not assume that the wound is clean and follow the procedure properly.
Breathing on an open wound should also be avoided.
After the bleeding has come under control, do not try to clean the wound again.
Seek medical attention to remove deeply embedded object inside the wound.
It is not advisable to probe or pick any object from or debris from a wound.
For this purpose, it is imperative to have medical help.
Exposed body parts must not be pushed back; rather they should be covered with clean material till the medical help arrives.
Medical help is essential in situations when bleeding does not stop even after direct pressure on the wound for more than 10 minutes, there is an impaired function or feeling from the cut or the victim is seriously injured.
Even if the bleeding is not too severe but the cut or wound is big and deep, the doctor’s help must be taken.
Timely first aid for puncture wounds can help the patient recover faster.