Most common of all injuries are cuts and scrapes. These are a break in the skin and possible penetration to the muscle tissue. Other common wounds are burns, bites and broken blisters.

Here are tips for basic wound care:

1. First-Stop the bleeding. Apply pressure with a gauze pad or blood stopper compress.
2. Clean or wash out the wound. If there is debris in the wound it must be cleaned out. Use a wound wash or run water over it and attempt to clean it out. Allowing the wound to bleed for a moment may also help in removing any debris. If the debris cannot be removed you may want to seek medical attention.
3. Apply an antiseptic ointment or spray to prevent infection. Infections can cause the wound to heal slowly and can lead to further complications.
4. Apply a clean bandage. Keeping a wound covered and moist will speed up the healing process.
   1. Bandages are available in an assortment of sizes and shapes for different applications. Keep a good supply of these items on hand in your first aid kits.
5. Last of all-change the dressing often. If you notice any swelling, excess pain, redness or discharge, seek medical attention.

It is important for all companies to have a basic first aid kit available to all employees. Even if the accident happened at home, the employee brings this injury to work and lost productivity is often the result without proper care.

For more information please call 866-362-2691 or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit our website at www.westernfirstaid.com