Important wound care tips and products

If you are the caregiver of someone who is healing from a wound (whether minor or chronic), it can feel overwhelming. This is especially true if the wound is a result of surgery. In addition, if your loved one, or patient, is elderly, healing can take longer, and they may be more sensitive to pain. This is especially true for the elderly as they grow older, skin becomes more fragile and sensitive, and is more likely to have problems healing. Knowing how to care for wounds (from immediate first aid to long term care) can be beneficial for both the elderly patient and the family caregiver. Following these tips can help your elderly loved one heal as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Here is what you need to know about wound care tips and products:

• Immediate first aid-It is important to understand that a wound occurs when skin is torn, cut, sore, bruised, punctured, or similarly damaged. The first step is to stop any bleeding by applying gentle pressure with sterile gauze. You should then elevate the wound area above the heart. Keep in mind, if bleeding does not stop in five minutes, professional help is needed, and should be called on right away. Once the bleeding has stopped, you should cleanse the wound area with water and sterile gauze. Keep in mind, soap can irritate it, so you should try to avoid contact in the wound itself. Gently pat the entire wound dry. After cleansing, you should apply a thin layer of an antibiotic ointment, which acts as a barrier to infection. It is also important to realize that a covered wound heals better. Caregivers should cover the wound with thick, quality sterile gauze that will not stick. You can then secure the gauze with hurt-free tape or wrap, which sticks only to itself and will not pull at sensitive skin when removed.
• Long term wound care-The most important step for long term wound care is to be sure to change the dressing each day, and whenever it becomes wet or dirty. In addition, if the wound does not appear to be healing it may have become infected. You should see a doctor immediately if you notice any sign of infection. In addition it is important to keep in mind that those elderly patients with underlying medical conditions (diabetes, arthritis, congestive heart failure etc.) may have special needs in relation to wound to their care.

There are also certain products that can help with wound care, and speed up healing. For intensive healing products check out the wide variety that is offered through Caregiverpartnership.com . These moisturizing and soothing products can help promote healing. In addition, it is important to have the right supplies on hand to treat and care for the wound. These can include but are not limited to:

• Dressing and pads-These are used to protect and cover wounds. For long-term wound healing it is best to order these products in bulk and have them on hand.
• Gauze rolls-These can be used to protect wounds or allow healing wounds to have air circulation. At The CareGiver Partnership they offer a wide variety of sizes and types of gauze to fit a multitude of wound care needs.
• Site sponges and wound cleansers-Special sponges and wound cleansers will help caregivers keep wounds clean and dry. It is especially important to make sure that wounds are clean to prevent infection and reduce the risk of complications, as well promote faster healing.
• Skin closures and tape- You can find many different kinds of skin closures and tape that will protect the wound without damaging the skin. As elderly skin is much more fragile and sensitive this becomes an important consideration in wound care.