Key Practice Points ▪ In recent years, there has been a threefold increase in superficial soft tissue infections (SSTI) including abscesses. The rise in community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is…
Key Practice Points ▪ All patients with abrasions, lacerations, burns, or other wounds require a tetanus immunization history. ▪ Tetanus occurs almost exclusively in patients with incomplete primary immunization. ▪…
Key Practice Points ▪ Deep cutaneous and necrotizing infections are often heralded by severe pain before skin signs appear. ▪ Microorganisms responsible for deep infections can include community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus…
Key Practice Points ▪ All animal bites exhibit similarities, but there are enough differences that each one needs to be evaluated and managed individually. ▪ The most important steps in…
Key Practice Points ▪ A gentle and empathetic approach to patients is necessary when administering local anesthesia because of the near universal fear of injections and needles. ▪ The onset…
Key Practice Points ▪ Applying the principles of wound closure is key to acceptable wound and scar appearance. ▪ Matching the layers of the wound surfaces with sutures is critical…
Key Practice Points ▪ Lacerations and wounds can be managed with a few well-chosen instruments: needle holders, tissue forceps, and scissors. ▪ Each instrument requires special handling (described in this…
Key Practice Points ▪ Because wounds are often contaminated with bacteria, there is a time limit (the “golden period”) between the laceration and closure with sutures. It varies between 6…
Key Practice Points ▪ Thorough wound cleansing and irrigation are the most important steps in repairing wounds and lacerations. ▪ Povidone-iodine solution (not scrub preparation) is the most effective skin,…
Key Practice Points ▪ The average laceration cared for by emergency caregivers is 1 to 3 cm in length, with 13% of lacerations considered significantly contaminated. ▪ The most common…
