Wound care is one of the most important aspects of post-surgery care, and it is actually pretty simple. You can use sterile gauze, medical tape for sensitive skin, Curad, Nexcare, or generic bandages for sensitive skin. Tegaderms are amazing and work very well and keep the incision sites super clean. All supplies can be purchased from any Rexall, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Walmart, Dollar Store, or most pharmacies.
The steps for properly taking care of your wounds are as follows:
- Wash your hands and prepare the area in which you want to change your dressing.
- Set out all the supplies you may need – tape, gauze, spray, bandages, etc.
- Remove the old dressing carefully and slowly. Wash the incision sites with Hibiclens or generic brand of chlorhexidine or any antibacterial soap like Dial.
- Spray Rifocin or an antiseptic spray onto the incision sites. Allow to dry.
- Cover with a small piece of gauze and then apply the tape or bandage or a Tegaderm to the area. If the incision site seems open, stick the tape or bandage to the bottom of the incision site and pull up to bring the two edges together, then stick the tape at the top.
- Wash the incision sites daily and change the dressing twice daily for the first week or as needed.
Some incision sites may need the dressing changed more frequently, especially if they are draining. Some sites will dry up sooner, while others tend to weep and drain for up to two weeks post-surgery. This is very normal.
Watch for and report any signs of fever, chills, pus, blood, foul odor, pain, or a lump forming under the incision sites. As the incision sites heal, they may look a little strange, almost like an eye winking at you. They can be a little bit red and itchy. Once they have scabbed over and are dry, you can let air hit them.
You should avoid tub bathing and swimming in pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans for 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. Make sure the incision sites are completely healed and closed up before participating in these activities.
