SKIN WOUNDS

    These are individual punctures, scrapes, scratches and cuts that break the skin's surface. The top layers of skin are damaged, causing nerves, blood vessels, and lymph vessels to be exposed to the air. This causes immediate pain and creates an opportunity for germs to enter the body, When an injury occurs, the immediate area can become red and inflamed. The infectious fighting white blood cells rush to the site and begin the healing process. A dry protective scab will usually form within a few hours, as nature's protection against infection. ,Unfortunately, scabs will occasionally obscure secondary infection, so treatment needs to continue as long as redness is present. See the section on Abrasions in this book.

    * Wash the area gently, yet thoroughly, with Antibacterial Liquid Soap and cool water. Cool water quickly reduces the pain. (Warm or hot water increases nerve stimulation and thus pain in most people.) Allow the stream of water to wash off all visible particulates. Pick out any embedded material if possible. Pat dry and apply T36-C5. Because of its ability to kill bacteria, T36-C5 will help treat the infection and the soreness created by the inflammation. As this dries, apply Renew Intensive Skin Therapy, MelaGel, or Triple Antibiotic Ointment and try to allow the wound to remain open to the air. If a bandage is necessary, saturate it with Triple Antibiotic Ointment or MelaGel to prevent sticking. Repeat this as needed until the wound is adequately covered with a scab and all redness has disappeared.
    WARNING: If the skin wounds are deep or contaminated and if it has been five years or more since your last tetanus shot, immediately contact your physician. Older adults are much more susceptible to tetanus because they are not as likely to be current on their booster shots.