Lake Norman Wound Healing Center - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I let my wound just be open to air?
   No. Wound healing best occurs when the wound bed is kept moist and the healing cells can travel across the wound to close it. The purpose of dressings prescribed for you are to maintain just the right amount of moisture - not too much and not too little. The dressings also protect the wound from environmental contamination.
    
2. Can I get my wound wet in the shower?
   Yes, unless you have stitches, staples, exposed bone or your doctor has advised against it. Make sure you ask before you shower or bathe. If you need to keep your wound dry, use a garbage bag or some sort of plastic cover to keep it dry when you shower. Typically, you should not be "soaking" your wound.
    
3. What if I forget to change my dressing?
   As soon as you remember, change your dressing. Be careful when removing it, just in case it's stuck to the wound. If it is stuck, use just enough water to soak it off so it comes off without causing you any pain. Then, redress your wound as your doctor has directed.
    
4. How do I cleanse my wound?
   Cleanse your wound using normal saline - salt water - or a special wound cleanser prescribed by your doctor.
    
5. Can I use a whirlpool to clean my wound?
   No. Water under pressure may drive bacteria or germs into the wound tissue. We do not typically recommend a whirlpool on a regular basis.
    
6. If I get dry skin, can I use lotion?
   Yes, skin that's kept moist is less likely to break down. But do not put skin lotion in the wound. If you have skin that's broken open, please ask your doctor for a recommended product.
    
7. What kind of skin lotion does the center suggest?
   An emollient lotion, one which puts moisture back into the skin instead of covering the skin as another layer. Do not use petroleum jelly, because it forms a separate layer. Examples of emollients are Curel Moisturizing, Nivea, Neutrogena, A&D ointment, Vitamin A&D, Eucerin Moisturizing, Keri Lotion and Lubriderm.
    
8. Will the sun’s rays or a sun lamp help my skin?
   No, they dry out the wound bed. The goal is to keep the wound bed moist. In addition, the sun or a sun lamp can cause a burn or other problems.
    
9. What does it mean if an area of my skin changes color?
   Some skin changes are not harmful. Others, like redness, can be a sign of problems. Inspect the skin around the wound daily for any changes. Show any changes, especially redness, promptly to your healthcare provider.
    
10. Can I use betadine or hydrogen peroxide on my wound?
    No. We do not recommend these solutions because they can kill healthy cells.
     
11. I am a diabetic, is it important to keep my blood sugar under control?
    Yes, it is very important. High blood sugar can slow down or prevent wound healing. Talk to your wound care physician about the ideal number at which to maintain your blood sugar level.
     
12. What other things should I be reporting to my wound care physician?
    Please inform your physician of any of the following:

• Wound pain
• Increased wound drainage
• High blood sugar (for diabetics)
• Redness in the skin around your wound
• Wound bleeding
• Changes in your body temperature, blood pressure or mental orientation
• Need for dressing supplies
• Any new wounds found on your body
• Any medication changes
• Difficulty completing the prescribed dressing changes
• Any questions or concerns you have about your wound care

Any wound that has not started to heal in two weeks or completely healed in six weeks may benefit from a specialized wound care center. Ask your physician if a referral to The Lake Norman Wound Healing Center would be the right option for you.