The Facts and Fictions of Wound Care

(NC) - An understanding of basic minor wound care is essential for families. Unfortunately too many myths about wound care are accepted as facts. How well do you know the truths about wound care? Take this quiz to test your knowledge.

Fact or Fiction Quiz on Wound Care

1. A minor wound or cut will heal better if you let a scab form.

Fiction. Scabs actually lengthen the healing process. Scabs will often cause discomfort and increase the chance of scarring. The fastest way to heal a wound is to keep it covered with a bandage. This keeps the wound moist and helps the skin cells bond together to form new skin. A bandage also prevents dirt, germs and water from getting into the wound.

2. Cuts and wounds need to "breathe" to best heal.

Fiction. Wounds do need oxygen to heal properly, but the oxygen that they use comes from our blood supply. Too much air may result in a scab forming, thus preventing the wound from healing. A wound should be completely covered with a bandage or pad until it is fully healed.

3. All wounds should be treated with antiseptic cleanser or have an antibiotic ointment applied.

Fact. Washing a wound with an antiseptic cleanser is an essential step in preventing infection. Using an ointment or cream will also prevent infection while the wound heals. Cleansing and covering a wound speeds up the healing process and minimizes the chance of infection.

4. Small cuts don't need a bandage.

Fiction. For proper healing, all cuts, even small ones, need to be covered with a bandage. Covering your wound is an essential part of wound care.

This summer, BAND-AID* Brand introduces BAND-AID Brand Tough-Strips* Waterproof which is a new bandage designed to stay on longer under tough and even wet conditions. These new bandages are 100% waterproof and fiber reinforced for greater durability.

BAND-AID Brand and BAND-AID Brand Tough-Strips Waterproof are registered trademarks of Johnson & Johnson.

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