Introduction

Once the patient has been assessed and stabilised, and any life-threatening injuries have been treated, the clinician can begin addressing the wound. This topic covers a step-by-step guide to treating wounds at the initial presentation. The steps are as follows:

1. Prevent further contamination (during stabilisation).
2. Assess the wound and create a treatment plan.
3. Lavage to remove foreign debris.
4. Debride dead and dying tissue. (You may then lavage again)
5. Select and apply an appropriate dressing (and bandage).
6. Ensure adequate wound drainage.
7. Select an appropriate closure method.