How to clean your wound

Wounds (scrapes/abrasions or blisters) have less chance of becoming infected and heal faster if kept clean, moist with ointment and bandaged. DO NOT use hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol to clean your wound. These products will damage healthy cells that start the healing process. Instead, clean wounds with warm water and soap. DO NOT allow scabs to form-scabs can delay healing and pull off easily with activity.

Signs of infection

If you notice redness, warmth, swelling, an increase in pain, pus or red streaks, or a temperature over 100°F (38°C) immediately see a health care provider (school nurse, athletic trainer, doctor) to have it evaluated.

Protecting your wound

Keep your wound covered with a protective dressing for sports, do not go into open water (swimming pools/whirlpools) until your wound is closed. Once your wound is healed, you should apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Create a healthy healing environment for your wound to heal.

Self-Care Instructions

1. Wash your hands with soap and water. 

2. Clean wound(s) with soap and water. You may do this in the shower. Make sure to get all the area as clean as possible and remove dirt and debris. (Permanent tattooing can occur if all dirt or asphalt is not totally removed from injured skin.) 

3. Dry wound(s) gently with a clean towel. 

4. Apply a clean dressing/Band-Aid and ointment. 

5. If the wound and skin becomes shriveled (like when you spend too much time in the water) remove the dressing until the area returns to normal-then reapply a new dressing. 

6. Change bandage daily.

7. Keep the bandage(s) dry between changes.