10 Mistakes to Avoid With At-Home Wound Care

Summary

This blog highlights 10 common mistakes people make when caring for wounds at home and offers practical solutions to avoid them. It covers issues like improper cleaning, using non-sterile supplies, applying bandages too tightly, and neglecting to monitor healing progress. Proper wound assessment, regular repositioning for immobile patients, and stocking a steady supply of essential wound care items are suggested steps to take. By following these tips, readers can promote faster healing, reduce infection risks, and improve overall wound care outcomes.

10 Mistakes in At-Home Wound Care and How to Avoid Them

Caring for a wound at home might seem straightforward, but common mistakes can slow healing, increase the risk of infection, and lead to complications. Correct wound care is essential for recovery, whether you're managing a minor cut, a surgical incision, or a chronic wound.

In this blog, we’ll explore 10 common mistakes people make when treating wounds at home and provide practical solutions to avoid them. Understanding these problems and following best practices can promote faster healing and reduce the risk of complications. This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance and recommendations regarding your health.

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Wound Dressing for the Type of Wound

One of the most common errors in at-home wound care is using the wrong type of wound dressing, which can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. Different wounds, like burns, ulcers, surgical wounds, pressure injuries, lacerations, and abrasions, require specific products and care for optimal healing. This is why choosing the right wound dressing is essential for proper healing.

Dressings serve different purposes, such as maintaining moisture balance, absorbing excess fluid, and protecting the wound from infection or further injury. Disrupting the moisture balance in wound care leads to complications like maceration (excess moisture) or desiccation (drying out). A wound that dries out can form a hard scab, delaying tissue repair, while too much moisture can weaken the skin and increase infection risk1.

 

Solution: Choose the Right Dressing for the Wound Type

To promote faster recovery and reduce complications, match the dressing to the wound type, moisture needs, and level of exudate. If unsure, consult a healthcare professional for help choosing the best choice for effective wound care. The following wound dressing selection guide can help you choose the right dressing for your needs.

  • Hydrocolloid Dressings for Moist Wounds: Designed for wounds with moderate moisture, such as pressure ulcers or minor abrasions, hydrocolloid dressing creates a gel-like barrier that keeps the wound moist. This encourages tissue regeneration while protecting it from contaminants.
  • Foam Dressings for High Exudate Wounds: Wounds that produce a large amount of exudate, such as venous ulcers or deep surgical wounds, require absorbent dressings. Foam dressings absorb excess fluid and prevent maceration while keeping the wound moist enough for proper healing.
  • Alginate Dressings for Fluid Control: Made from seaweed fibers, these dressings absorb heavy exudate while maintaining a moist healing environment. They are commonly used for deep wounds or wounds with irregular shapes and are often paired with silver (Ag) dressings for antibacterial protection.
  • Hydrogels for Burn Wound Protection: Hydrogels, non-adherent, and silicone-coated dressings help soothe and protect delicate new skin while preventing excessive dryness and shielding from bacteria.
  • Transparent Film for Post-Surgical Wound Protection: After surgery, wounds need protection from bacteria and excessive movement to prevent reopening. Transparent film dressings allow easy monitoring and provide a barrier against infection while allowing proper airflow2.

Mistake 2: Failing to Keep the Wound Clean and Disinfected

Proper wound cleaning is critical for reducing infection risk in wounds and promoting faster healing. This step is often neglected or done incorrectly using harsh, improper cleaning methods that can damage tissue.

Wounds naturally attract bacteria from the skin and environment. If not properly cleaned, these bacteria can thrive, leading to infections, delayed healing, and even complications that require medical attention. Bacteria prevention in wound care is crucial to avoid infections that can cause redness, swelling, pain, pus formation, or a foul odor.

 

Solution: Clean the Wound Properly

  • Practice Proper Hand Hygiene: The first step in wound care is to properly wash your hands. Washing hands thoroughly before and after touching the wound prevents spreading bacteria. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these steps:

    1. Wet your hands with clean, running water and apply soap.

    2. Lather by rubbing your hands together, covering the backs of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails.

    3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds (or hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice).

    4. Rinse hands thoroughly under clean, running water.

    5. Dry with a clean towel or an air dryer.

    If soap and water are unavailable, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wearing clean and protective disposable gloves also reduces the risk of infection3.
  • Use Gentle Wound-Cleaning Techniques: Gently rinse the area with sterile saline, wound cleansing solutions, and debriders, or mild soap with potable water. This removes debris, dirt, and bacteria without scrubbing and irritating the wound. Proper cleaning removes biofilm and nonadherent necrotic tissue that can harbor bacteria. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can damage healthy tissue and delay healing4.
Proper Handwashing Techniques Keep Wounds CleanProper Handwashing Techniques Keep Wounds Clean

Mistake 3: Improper Disposal of Soiled Dressings

Managing wounds at home can lead to an unsanitary workspace. Placing dirty dressings on a table or countertop, or keeping clean dressing supplies near used instruments and soiled gauze, increases the risk of bacterial spread. To prevent contamination risks, create a work area that is clear of used supplies before applying clean, dry dressings.

Failing to follow proper disposal of medical waste can spread bacteria, putting caregivers and others at risk of infection. Used dressings may contain blood, exudate, and harmful microorganisms that can contaminate surfaces and lead to cross-contamination if not handled correctly.

 

Solution: Practice Safe Disposal Methods

  • Use Sealed Bags or Medical-Grade Disposal Containers: Place soiled dressings in a sealed bag before discarding them to prevent bacteria from spreading. Consider using biohazard bags or disposal containers that offer an added layer of safety, especially for dressings with heavy drainage or infection risks.
  • Avoid Open Trash Bins: Throwing used dressings directly into an open trash can exposes others to potential contaminants. Always use a covered bin or double-bag the waste if necessary.
  • Wash Hands After Disposal: Even with infection prevention in wound disposal, bacteria can linger on the hands after handling soiled dressings. To maintain hygiene, implement handwashing after dressing changes. Disinfect any surfaces that came into contact with the used dressing.

Mistake 4: Inconsistent Dressing Changes

Consistent dressing changes matter in wound care. Irregular wound care routines can lead to infections, excessive moisture buildup, or wound desiccation. Not changing wound dressings regularly can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.

Too frequent changes can disturb the wound bed, removing newly forming tissue and delaying healing. Infrequent changes allow bacteria and excess exudate to accumulate, increasing the risk of infection and skin maceration. Leaving a dressing on too long can cause it to dry out and adhere to the wound, making removal painful and potentially damaging healing tissue.

 

Solution: Follow a Healthcare Provider’s Recommendations

Always adhere to the dressing schedule provided by your healthcare provider. If you are unsure whether a dressing needs changing, consult a healthcare professional before disturbing the wound. Monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or unusual discharge.

The frequency of dressing changes depends on the wound type, level of exudate, and the type of dressing used. For high exudate wounds, use a dressing that helps absorb excess fluid. Low exudate wounds use a dressing that supports moisture retention.

  • Foam dressings used for moderate to heavy exudative and chronic wounds and pressure injuries may require dressing changes daily or a few times a week.
  • Hydrogels have a low absorptive capacity and are not used for heavy exudative wounds may require dressing changes every one to three days.
  • Hydrocolloids are used for pressure wounds with minimal to moderate exudate and may require dressing changes every two to four days.
  • Alginate dressings are used for high exudate wounds and may require dressing changes every one to three days.
  • Films used for shallow wounds are non-absorbant and may require fewer dressing changes ranging from every three to seven days5.
Follow a Healthcare Provider's Instructions for Wound Dressing ChangesFollow a Healthcare Provider's Instructions for Wound Dressing Changes

Mistake 5: Ignoring Early Signs of Infection

Failing to recognize the early signs of infection can lead to serious complications, delaying wound healing and increasing the risk of more severe infections. Watch for these common signs of wound infection.

  • Increased Warmth: A wound may feel warm initially due to an immune response, but if warmth lasts beyond five days or the surrounding skin feels unusually hot, it could indicate infection.
  • Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling are normal early on, but if they persist beyond five days or spread around the wound, it may indicate improper healing or infection.
  • Unusual Discharge: A small amount of pus is normal, but continuous drainage, foul odor, or thick yellow or green fluid may indicate infection.
  • Pain: Pain should gradually decrease; if it worsens or persists, it may signal an issue or infection.
  • Fever: A fever and general discomfort may indicate a systemic infection, requiring medical attention.
  • Delayed Healing: The wound is not healing or is getting worse over time6.

 

Solution: Recognize the Signs of Infection and Get Help

If you suspect an infection, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter ointments unless directed by a professional, as some infections require medical treatment. Do not ignore persistent symptoms, as untreated infections can lead to serious health risks.

To prevent infected wounds, use antimicrobial dressings or solutions to reduce bacteria and minimize infection risks. Keep the wound clean and dry by regularly cleansing it with an appropriate solution to prevent bacterial buildup. Change dressings as recommended, as leaving a soiled or damp dressing on too long can promote infection. Practice proper hand hygiene by washing hands before and after wound care to avoid contamination.

Mistake 6: Using Non-Sterile Supplies

Using non-sterile supplies during dressing changes can introduce harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and slowing down the healing process. Unclean and contaminated scissors, gloves, or gauze can carry pathogens that lead to delayed wound healing, inflammation, and more severe infections.

Avoiding contamination during wound care is important for optimal healing and patient and caregiver safety. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions for at-home wound care.

 

Solution: Prevent Contamination

  • Use Sterile Tools: Use clean, sterile gauze, scissors, forceps, and other wound care tools to prevent bacterial transfer.
  • Maintain a Clean Workspace: Clear the dressing change area of unnecessary items, keep pets away, and remove jewelry. Disinfect the workspace surface and cover it with a clean cloth or paper towel to maintain a sterile area. Wash hands thoroughly before accessing clean supplies7.
  • Choose Single-Use Medical Supplies: Whenever possible, use individually packaged sterile dressings, gloves, and tools to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria. Disposable gloves create a protective barrier, reducing the risk of contamination and infection.
  • Disinfect Wound Care Tools: If using reusable instruments, disinfect them with medical-grade solutions before each use. Bandage scissors should be sanitized before applying a clean dressing, and caregivers should be taught proper cleaning methods4.
Wipe Down and Sanitize Workspace Surfaces Before Dressing ChangesWipe Down and Sanitize Workspace Surfaces Before Dressing Changes

Mistake 7: Applying Bandages Too Tightly or Leaving Wounds Partially Exposed

Improper bandage applications can negatively impact wound healing. Tight bandages can lead to blood flow restriction, causing numbness, pain, swelling, and tissue damage. However, if the dressing is applied too loosely, the wound may become exposed, dry out, and increase the risk of contamination and delayed healing.

 

Solution: Use Proper Bandage Application Techniques

  • Use a Secure, Breathable Dressing: Apply a snug but comfortable wrap to secure the bandage without restricting blood flow, using dressings that allow air circulation while maintaining proper moisture levels.
  • Prevent Wound Exposure: Make sure the dressing covers the entire wound, avoiding exposure to dirt and bacteria.
  • Monitor Signs and Symptoms: Look for signs of tightness, such as skin discoloration, tingling, or swelling, and adjust to avoid blood flow restriction.

Mistake 8: Neglecting Pressure Relief for Pressure Injuries

Pressure injuries, also known as pressure ulcers, bedsores, or pressure sores, are areas of skin damage caused by restricted blood flow. These injuries often occur over bony areas like the heels, hips, elbows, shoulders, and the back of the head. They are particularly common in immobile patients who are unable to reposition themselves frequently.

Pressure ulcers are primarily caused by prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body, which cuts off blood supply and leads to tissue damage and skin breakdown. Friction and shearing, when the skin slides or rubs against surfaces, can further contribute to skin injury, especially when combined with moisture. Poor circulation in certain areas also increases the risk of ulcer development, making these areas more vulnerable to pressure-related damage.

 

Solution: Prevent Pressure Ulcers at Home

  • Frequent Repositioning: Reposition immobile patients on bedrest at least every two hours to relieve pressure from vulnerable areas. For wheelchair-bound patients, shift positions every 10 to 15 minutes or have someone move them at least once an hour.
  • Pressure-Relief Cushions and Mattresses: Invest in pressure-relieving devices such as cushions, overlays, or alternating air mattresses that distribute weight more evenly and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. This type of mattress for immobile patients contains cells that inflate and deflate alternately to improve blood circulation8.
  • Regular Monitoring: Routinely check pressure-prone areas, such as the heels, sacrum, and elbows, for signs of redness, swelling, or early skin breakdown, as these areas are prone to pressure ulcers.
Move Patient to Prevent BedsoresMove Patient to Prevent Bedsores

Mistake 9: Failing to Monitor Wound Progress and Healing Regularly

Effective wound care relies on a thorough assessment which provides key insights for treatment planning. Without regular monitoring, signs of infection or delayed healing may be missed, leading to poor outcomes. By consistently evaluating wounds, caregivers can enhance treatment effectiveness and support a faster, safer recovery.

 

Solution: Monitor Wound Healing Progress

Conducting a proper evaluation when managing a wound at home is crucial for supporting the healing process. Here are the steps to take:

  • Track the Wound Healing Progress: Regularly monitor the wound size and depth to observe healing. This allows for timely adjustments in dressings, medications, and interventions while detecting potential complications early. A reduction in size typically indicates proper healing, while any increase in size could suggest complications.
  • Observe Wound Appearance: Watch for changes in appearance, such as redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or an odor, which can signal infection or other issues.
  • Keep a Wound Care Log: Documenting the wound’s condition, treatment, and any changes helps track progress over time. Wound care logs and updates can be shared with healthcare providers to show that the treatment plan is working9.

If there is no progress, or the wound worsens despite proper care, seek medical attention. Delayed wound healing can indicate infection, poor circulation, or other underlying issues that require professional attention.

Mistake 10: Running Out of Supplies

Successful wound management depends on stocking wound care essentials to prevent disruptions in treatment. Running out of essential wound care products can increase the risk of infection and delay healing. Diligent antiseptic supply management and inventory tracking are crucial for maintaining consistent care.

 

Solution: Avoid Supply Shortages

  • Stock Up on Essentials: Maintain an adequate supply of dressings, sterile gauze, gloves, and antiseptics for uninterrupted wound care.
  • Set Re-Order Reminders: Remembering to reorder dressings and gloves is simplified when you schedule reminders to restock supplies before they run out, preventing last-minute shortages.
  • Create an Emergency Kit: Keep extra wound care essentials in an accessible place for unexpected situations.
  • Monitor Supply Levels: Regularly check inventory and replenish items as needed to maintain a steady supply.
Keep Extra Supplies on Hand to Avoid Supply ShortagesKeep Extra Supplies on Hand to Avoid Supply Shortages

Conclusion

At-home wound care requires attention to detail and consistent practices to promote healing and prevent complications. Avoiding common mistakes can help speed up recovery and reduce infection risks. Simple preventative actions and following care guidelines make a big difference. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns with the wound healing process.

Footnotes