Abrasion

What is it?

• Abrasion- Matt burns, scuff burns caused by scraping or rubbing off the outer layer of skin. The lesions or abrasions are easily infected and require a thorough cleaning with soap and water
• Hemmorage- if minor may be controlled by local pressure and elevation.

Facts:

• Incised Wounds- tend to bleed freely because the vessels have been cut; usually the flow of blood wipes out the infected area. Always clean with isotonic saline and inspect for foreign materials.
• Deep Wound- should be cleaned and closed within 7 days, the sooner the better.
• Lacerations or Tears- usually have uneven edges where torn with characteristics of sluggish bleeding with damage to the surrounding tissue.

Recommendations:

• Prevent Infection- treat wound aseptically, may need an antibiotic, or a tetanus shot.
• Stage II Wound or Higher- Suggest a MVI/Multi-Vitamin 1 per day, Vitamin C 500 mg. bid and Zinc Sulfate 220 mg./day to promote healing, sometimes add amino acids (Juven or Arginaid) and may add a Protein Powder or Liquid (Procel, Promod, or Prostat), may also suggest to add High Protein Foods as meats, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, dried peas and beans to promote healing of the wound/s.

What can I do?

• See your Health Care Provider- for an evaluation of the abrasion (wound or cut).
• See a Registered Dietitian- for help as needed
• See FFF RD- on line for help