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wound care

Home Instruction

  1. To help the healing process, eat nutritious foods high in calories and protein (i.e., meat, chicken, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, beans, milkshakes).
  2. Drink plenty of fluids.
  3. Elevate affected arms, legs on pillows when sitting or lying down to prevent a "throbbing" sensation, promote venous circulation and help decrease swelling.
  4. ACE wrap grafts and donor sites on legs when walking or weight bearing until wounds are healed and pressure garments arrive. Wear ace wraps for two hour intervals and remove.
  5. Protect healing skin from scrapes and rubbing. Wear loose clothing: sweats, boxer shorts and t-shirts. If your burn is near a joint (elbow, hand, knee) be sure to follow prescribed exercise program to prevent stiffness and skin contractures.
  6. Take pain medications as instructed for pain control.
  7. Avoid strenuous activity.
  8. Avoid heat and sun exposure. Wear sunscreen (spf #15, #30) and hats.

Notify your doctor of:

  • Foul smelling odor
  • Temperature greater than 101.5
  • Green or purulent drainage
  • Change in pain sensation
  • Increased redness to or around graft or donor site
  • Swelling or bleeding
  • Changes in appearance

NOTE: Please read your Home Care Instructions for more details

In Case of Emergency: (615) 322-4590

 

 



 

 

 

     
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