[Medical Q&A] Can I use a Band-Aid as long as I have a wound?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Zhao Jie, Chief Pharmacist Professor of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Band-aids are also called hemostatic patches. They can stop bleeding and protect wounds. They are widely used in life. When you are cut by a knife while cutting vegetables, or accidentally cut your hand, or a girl wears sandals and rubs her heel, you will use a band-aid for emergency treatment. However, not all wounds are suitable for band-aids. When using a band-aid, you should consider the type of wound and the specific situation.

Band-aids can be used on small cuts, abrasions or superficial wounds, but it should be noted that the wound must be cleaned before use, otherwise it will cause infection. Band-aids cannot be used on some wounds, such as wounds bitten or scratched by animals, skin boils, and heavily contaminated wounds. Wounds bitten or scratched by animals and wounds that have been infected cannot be closed. The wounds must be kept breathable and easy to disinfect. In addition, rabies vaccines must be injected in time after being bitten or scratched by animals. If a band-aid is used on such wounds, it will not only be detrimental to the absorption and drainage of pus, but will be conducive to the growth and reproduction of bacteria. Please remember that the most taboo thing about wounds is infection. The wounds must be disinfected and sterilized and kept clean. If they are complex or serious wounds, medical treatment should be sought as soon as possible.