&es
                                         THE VETERINARY CENTRE   &ef 
&pad1, &pad2, &pad3
           
  &es                         OPEN WOUND CARE AT HOME
                &ef      

Prepared for: &bs &animal &bf
Belonging to: &bs &client &bf
              &bs &address1&bf
              &bs &address2&bf
              &bs &address3&bf


                                                           Date: &date


&es
WHY LEAVE A WOUND OPEN? &ef

Most open wounds will be contaminated with bacteria and/or other foreign
material such as hair or grit. Where possible we will usually try to clean
the wound and stitch it.

In certain circumstances this is not advisable, such as when there is gross
contamination or deep infection. These wounds are left open (or abscesses
are lanced), in order to allow proper drainage and prevent infection.



&es
BASIC PRINCIPLES &EF

Here are a few basic principles that will help &animal
back to health:

- bathe the wound and surrounding area to remove crusted discharge or dried
pus. This will reduce the potential for re-infection, and helps to keep the
wound edges clean.

- try to prevent the wound closing over. After you have bathed the area you
should find that gentle massaging or traction will open the wound. This
should be done about 2 or 3 times a day. Do not be alarmed at any discharge
you find, this fluid must be allowed to drain.

- try to discourage &animal  from licking the wound too much. Although &heshe
will be understandably curious, and possibly find the wound uncomfortable,
licking will not help the healing process.

&es
WHAT TO USE &ef

Mildly salted warm water (about a teaspoonful in a pint) is probably the
best, for the following reasons:        

1. It is approximately the same concentration as &animal's  plasma, so it
will not sting when applied to tender tissues.

2. It will not damage healing cells.

Please do not use household antiseptics, if there is a risk of infection we
will prescribe antibiotics or a specific cream.
.pa