First aid - what you need to know!
If the integrity of the skin is broken and the cause of the wound or scratch is a rusty object, you should definitely get vaccinated against tetanus, and if this vaccine is already in the body (i.e., you have received it), find out if it is still active (you need to clarify whether the vaccination has expired).
If you have been vaccinated against tetanus, you can treat your skin in the following way:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before touching the wound;
- If there is bleeding, apply a clean cloth and apply light pressure. Avoid excessive pressure, as this can make the pain and bleeding worse;
- Clean the wound. Mix 1 tablespoon of salt with lemon juice or vinegar in a bowl to make a paste. Apply the mixture to your skin and massage gently for a few minutes. As soon as you notice that the wound is free of dirt, rinse the area with warm water;
- Explain the situation to the pharmacy and they will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic cream;
- Cover the wound with a clean cloth.
Self-treatment is not allowed and you should immediately contact the clinic if you have the following symptoms:
- The wound is large and deep;
- The object with which you cut your skin is rusty or dirty;
- You have never been vaccinated against tetanus or you do not remember how many years ago you were last vaccinated;
- You still have a nail or other object in your leg (do not remove it yourself and only allow a doctor to touch the wound);
- The wound has signs of infection;
- You have a weak immune system;
- You have lost sensation in the damaged area;
- Bleeding is severe and does not stop with pressure (after 10 minutes when you apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding).
Tetanus is one of the most dangerous diseases, which is severe and sometimes causes death of the patient. If we look at the statistics, we will see a rather disturbing picture - vaccination is often the only solution.
The bacteria enter the body through wounds, burns and abrasions. The most common cause of tetanus infection is stepping on a rusty nail. By itself, a rusty nail does not always cause tetanus, but it is unacceptable to take risks, contact the clinic and get vaccinated.
Exercise maximum caution when being in the following environments:
- Abandoned houses or sheds;
- Forest;
- Field.
The bacteria that cause tetanus can live in the natural environment on metal objects that are destined to rust (knives, garden tools, nails).
Source:
