The most important principles of postsurgical wound healing [VIDEO]

The daily care for the postsurgical wound and the changing of dressings are important elements of the recovery process. Even though these activities are not complicated and can easily be conducted by patients themselves, they cause many concerns regarding their proper performance.

Several principles should be adhered to while caring for the wound:

1. Change wound dressings and disinfect the wound every day.
2. Before you change the dressing, wash and disinfect your hands. You do not need to put on disposable gloves.
3. When changing a dressing, place a folded gauze in the drove between your buttocks. It will ensure the air circulation and prevent from rubbing od the wound against the contralateral buttock.
4. Do not remove steri-strips unless they become loose or soiled, e.g. with feces.
5. Empty the drain bottle every day and measure the volume of the discharge from the wound.
6. Remove the drain when the volume of the fluid falls below 20mL/day.
7. Toy can take a shower without a wound dressing 24 hours after the procedure at the earliest.
8. For 6 weeks avoid soaking the wound for a long time while having a bath or in the swimming pool. After bowel movements wash the area with watore or use wet alcohol-free wipes.
9. Be gentle with the wound. Avoid situations in which you could hit the wound or fall on it. You can return to contact sports after 6 weeks.

VIDEO AVAILABLE WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES!