Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 5-8. Tourniquet application.
Wounds
The danger of infection is always present with any wound. Soap is antiseptic, and it will help to
reduce the chance of infection if a wound is washed with soap and clean water. Fresh urine is
almost always sterile, and can be used to cleanse a wound in the absence of clean water. Anti-
septics are handy to reduce the chance of infection, but will cause further tissue damage if used
inside deep wounds. Honey is mildly antibacterial and has been used for thousands of years to
prevent infection and speed the healing of battlefield wounds. Colloidal silver is also antibac-
terial and will not harm human tissue.
Abrasions
The main danger from abrasions is the possibility of infection. Clean the wound with soap and
antiseptic and cover with a clean dressing. Wash hands in sterile water, and boil non-sterile
dressings to sterilize.
Incisions
Incisions, or cuts, generally bleed enough to clean the wound, and are not as prone to infection
as abrasions. Minor wounds can be closed with butterfly bandages or stitches (sutures).
If a wound gets infected, it may be necessary to undo some of the stitches or lance the
wound to allow it to drain. To stitch a wound, use only a sterilized needle and thread. Draw the
edges of the wound together and begin stitching at the center of the wound. Tie off each stitch
individually, before moving on to the next stitch.
