Amid the floods that have hit Rio Grande do Sul since last week, the Brazilian Society of Dermatology – Rio Grande do Sul Section (SBD-RS) highlights the importance of dermatological care, especially with regard to injuries suffered by the homeless. Open wounds pose risks of infection, excessive bleeding and even serious complications such as tetanus.
“In emergency cases, the advice is to press firmly on the wound with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding, keep the area elevated and seek medical help as quickly as possible. Avoid touching the wound with your bare hands and use gloves if possible to avoid contamination”, explains the president of SBD-RS, Rosemarie Mazzucco.
If immediate medical attention is not possible, clean the wound thoroughly with clean running water or saline solution, dry lightly, place folded gauze and micropore, covering the wound. If solid petroleum jelly is available, it is a great option to help with healing. The guideline is to put Vaseline on the wound and then cover it with gauze and close it with micropore. Hygiene with running water must be repeated daily. If you notice swelling in the region, pus or secretion, it is important to assess the need for antibiotics.
SBD-RS reinforces that, in situations of suspected dermatological complications, it is essential to seek medical help or a dermatologist.
