10 tips for quick and proper wound care

• Clean your hands thoroughly

Wash your hands thoroughly before touching a wound. Only clean hands prevent germs from entering open skin and causing infections.

• Rinse the wound gently

Rinse the wound gently with clear water to remove visible dirt. Be careful not to apply strong pressure to avoid further irritating the injured tissue.

• Use antiseptic correctly

Use an antiseptic suitable for open wounds (e.g. octenidine or povidone-iodine). Pure alcohol or hydrogen peroxide are not suitable as they can irritate tissue.

• Cover the wound in a moist way

Cover the wound as quickly as possible with a sterile dressing or plaster. A moist wound environment promotes healing better than dry air and also protects the skin from further germs.

• Treat weeping wounds correctly

Do not use dry plasters or dressings on weeping wounds, as they can stick to the wound. Moist dressings or hydroactive bandages provide more comfort and support skin regeneration.

• Adhesive wound strips for open wound edges

For slightly open wound edges, sterile adhesive strips can be useful to gently bring the skin together. Then apply a protective plaster over them to prevent renewed stress on the skin.

• Always have bite wounds checked by a doctor

Always see a doctor for bite injuries. Even if the wound appears small on the surface, there is a high risk of infections with serious pathogens.

• Do not open blisters

Do not open blisters caused by friction or burns yourself. The blister skin protects the underlying sensitive tissue. Special blister plasters provide protection and reduce pain.

• Prepare wound-care supplies at home

Keep a well-equipped wound-care kit at home so you can act quickly in an emergency. Essential items include sterile compresses, plasters, tweezers, a bandage scissors, disinfectant and disposable gloves.