Essential Guidelines for Effective Postoperative Wound Care at Home

Written by Dimora Medical

Published on July 23nd, 2024

Upon returning home after your surgery, it is essential to ensure that the surgical incision remains uninfected. Familiarize yourself with some basic wound care guidelines to effectively aid in the healing process.
Proper postoperative wound care at home is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and to avoid complications. Two common postoperative wound complications are infection and wound dehiscence. To avoid these complications, please adhere to the following guidelines.

How can postoperative wounds heal quickly with home care?

Avoid Unnecessary Contact: Caregivers and family members should wash hands before and after touching the wound and avoid contact between the wound and unclean items.

Use Occlusive Wound Dressings: Prevent microbes from entering the wound by using occlusive dressings.

Avoid Strenuous Activity: If the wound is on the abdomen, avoid vigorous exercise or lifting heavy objects to prevent the wound from reopening.

Use Supportive Devices: Depending on the surgery site, use a support band or other supportive devices to reduce strain on the wound.

Moist wound dressings help facilitate postoperative wound healing.

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Wound care involves several key aspects, including keeping the wound clean, preventing infection, maintaining a nutritious diet to supply the body with necessary nutrients, and following the doctor's care instructions. By implementing comprehensive care measures, you can effectively promote wound healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Clean the Wound

The incision site needs regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth. Use wound cleansing solutions recommended by your doctor, such as hypochlorous acid wound wash.

Keep the Wound Dry

Maintain dryness in the first 24 hours post-surgery. Avoid baths or showers to prevent the wound from getting soaked and contaminated. If necessary, cover the wound with a film dressing or similar to keep it dry.

Change Dressings Regularly

Before the wound heals completely, dressings absorb moisture and prevent skin closure, creating an ideal healing environment. Regular dressing changes are crucial for keeping the wound clean.

Be Cautious of Infection

Postoperative infections can delay wound healing. If you notice green, yellow, or white discharge, foul odor, redness, swelling, or pain at the wound site, contact a doctor or wound care specialist promptly.