How to Care for Surgical Wounds

Every year, thousands of surgeries are performed in the U.S. They range from broken bones, bariatric procedures, abdominoplasty, etc. Many of these surgical wounds are deep, affect multiple organs and can cover large parts of the body. Surgeries requiring a long recovery may require you to care for these type of wounds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Patience
• Tolerance for blood and looking at wounds
• Organization
• Persistance
• Kerlix gauze pads or rolls

Bandaging the Wound

1. *Keep the wound and bandaging area clean.
   Soap and water may not be recommended. Usually a alcoloh solution is used. Cleaning can done with a wash cloth or gauze pad.
2. *Use the correct bandage.
   Most hospitals use Kerlix gauze pads or rolls because they let in air flow. Elastic bandages restrict air flow and may be too tight on the wound.
3. *Use the proper tape.
   Some people are allergic to plastic and cloth tape, in that case, you should use paper tape to prevent irritation.
4. *Properly apply the bandage.
   Make sure the entire wound is cover and that the tape is not too tight or loose. Make sure the bandage is taped securly with the minium amount of tape.
5. *Routinely change the bandage.
   Set up a schedule. Twice a day, every other day, or whatever works for you, as long as the area is cleanly dressed.
6. *Always follow your surgeons instructions.
   Make sure you clearly understand what you have to do. If you don't understand, then ask.

Tips & Warnings

• The most important step is keeping the wound area clean. In some instances, you may have to change bandages more than twice a day. Cleaning the wound area should be done every time the bandage is changed.
• Pay close attention to how the wound and wound area looks. Any changes, i.e., swellng, rashes, opening of the wound or abnormal bleeding should be reported to your surgeon immediately.