Skin Wounds/ Cuts/ Sores/ Abrasions
Skin Wounds/ Cuts/ Sores/ Abrasions Letter Home
Measures To Be Taken
- Emphasis on good, personal hygiene, especially hand washing, is essential to reducing the risk of infection.
- Wear disposable gloves, when exposed to blood or other body fluids.
- All wounds should be washed gently with soap and water to remove dirt.
- If a blister is present DO NOT BREAK BLISTER.
- Rinse affected area under running water.
- Pat affected area dry with gauze or paper towel.
- Apply a clean dry dressing (non-adhering for scrapes) and bandage.
- In some instances where bandages cannot be applied (e.g. scalp) hats and clothing can be effective barriers in preventing the spread of infection.
- Check student’s tetanus record for DPT/DT/Tdap to see if up to date.
- Contact responsible school authority and parent/legal guardian.
- Complete a student accident report if indicated.
Implications for School
Students/staff with open skin wounds/cuts/sores/abrasions need to keep the affected area covered. All sores must be covered until they have healed. If signs/symptoms of infection are present, such as redness, swelling, or drainage, refer the student/staff member to their health care provider. Contact Student Health Services at #______________ if additional information is needed.