Playing outside with friends is a common pastime for many Filipino children. But with the rough and tumble of street games, cuts, scrapes, and bruises are bound to happen. When that occurs, knowing the proper way to take care of wounds to avoid infections and promote faster healing is essential.
Filipinos have their ways of treating wounds, often relying on traditional home remedies like using vinegar, calamansi, or crushed garlic. While these remedies may have some benefits, it’s crucial to apply the three golden rules of wound care: Cleanse, Protect, and Heal.
Cleanse
The first step in wound care is to clean the affected area thoroughly. Using vinegar or other acidic solutions to cleanse the wound is not recommended as it may further irritate the skin and delay healing. Instead, it’s best to rinse the wound with clean, running water, preferably boiled and cooled or potable tap water. This action helps remove any visible debris or dirt and reduces the number of bacteria on the wound surface.
Protect
After cleaning the wound, it’s essential to protect it from further contamination. Applying an appropriate dressing or bandage helps prevent dirt, bacteria, and other particles from entering the wound. It also keeps the wound moist, which promotes faster healing.
Heal
The final step in wound care is to promote healing. For this, it’s essential to keep the wound moist and clean to heal more quickly. Applying petroleum jelly or other ointments can help prevent the wound from drying out and scabbing over, which may delay healing. It is important to change the dressing regularly, at least once a day or more frequently if it gets wet or dirty.
Wounds are a common occurrence in the lives of Filipinos, especially in children who love to play outdoors. While traditional home remedies may have some benefits, it’s crucial to follow the three golden rules of wound care: Cleanse, Protect, and Heal. Cleaning the wound with clean, running water, protecting it from further contamination with appropriate dressing or bandages, and promoting healing by keeping the wound moist and clean can help prevent infections and promote faster healing. By following these essential steps, Filipinos can take better care of their wounds and prevent further complications.
