Wound Packing

• Get ready to pack your wound.
  • Clean the table or sink where you will work.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Cover your work area with a clean towel.
  • Put a clean bowl on the towel. Don't touch the inside of the bowl.
  • Lay out the rest of your supplies.
• Prepare the packing material.
  • Pour some wetting solution into the bowl. Use enough to cover your packing material.
  • Cut off some of the packing material. Use the amount your doctor suggests. Place it in the wetting solution.
  • Cut a few pieces of tape, and have them ready.
  • Remove the old bandage and packing. Throw them away in a small plastic bag.
  • Wash your hands again with soap and water.
• Pack your wound.
  • Put on gloves.
  • Take packing material from the bowl. Gently squeeze it out. It should be wet, but not dripping wet.
  • Fill the wound with packing material. Don't pack it too tightly. Use your fingers or a cotton swab to press the material into smaller areas of the wound.
  • Be gentle. Let your doctor know if it hurts too much.
• Place the outer dressing.
  • Open the package for the outer dressing. This dressing is used to cover the damp packing material.
  • Keep the outer dressing dry and clean.
  • Place the outer dressing over the packing and the wound area. Tape it down securely.
  • Throw away your gloves, and wash your hands one more time.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have symptoms of a new infection or of an infection that's getting worse, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area, or red streaks getting worse.
  • Pus draining from the area or more pus than the bandage can absorb.
  • A fever.
• You have lots of bleeding.
• Your wound is changing color or has a worse odor.

  Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.