Wound infectionAll wounds contain bacteria – and even if the wound is healing normally, a limited amount of bacteria will be present. But if the bacteria count rises, the wound may become infected. Bacterial overload in a wound can lead to a serious infection that requires antibiotic treatment.
Clinical signs of wound infection
If the wound is not healing, it may be a sign of infection. In the wound, the following symptoms indicate infection: - odour
- increased exudate
- absent or abnormal granulation tissue
- increased pain
Additional clinical symptoms may arise if the infection spreads to the healthy tissue surrounding the wound. Depending on the type of bacteria, the wound exudate may become more puslike, and the peri-ulcer skin may be tender, red and painful. The patient may also have a fever.
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How to treat infected wounds and wounds at risk of infection
If a wound is healing normally, a foam dressing such as Biatain is ideal [Link]. If there is a local wound infection, or risk of developing one, we recommend absorbent, antimicrobial dressings such as Biatain Ag, SeaSorb Ag, or Physiotulle Ag.
If the infection has spread to the healthy tissue around the wound, you should consider systemic treatment with antibiotics. To complement the systemic treatment, an antimicrobial dressing such as Biatain Ag, SeaSorb Ag, or Physiotulle Ag can aid the healing process.
Always conduct a thorough assessment to determine the right treatment.
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