Infection is a common occurrence in open wounds caused by injury as well as surgical wounds. While some infections can be dealt with quickly, others can cause serious long term complications. Whether it’s a minor cut or a major trauma wound, providing effective wound care can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Find out why wounds become infected, who’s at risk and what you can do to prevent infection.

What is a wound infection?

An infection happens when the wound is invaded by harmful microorganisms or parasites. This could include things like harmful bacterias, viruses, yeast or fungi. The microorganisms that cause infection may come from a person’s own body or from the outside environment.

A wound that is not infected will gradually heal over time, following the normal healing processes. However, a wound that is infected may heal more slowly or become worse over time. An infection may even spread to other parts of the body or lead to other complications if left untreated.

Why do wounds become infected?

Human skin acts as a protective barrier, preventing the microorganisms in the environment from having a harmful effect on our inside tissues. When a wound breaks the surface of the skin, it creates a way for harmful germs to get into the body tissue. Although the body can handle a small amount of germs, a large amount can lead to an infection.

A wound is more likely to become infected if it’s a large or deep wound or if it has jagged edges. Wounds made with dirty or rusty items are also more likely to develop infection, especially if the wound is not cleaned straight away. If something remains in the wound, such as a splinter or shard of glass, infection is more likely.

Who is at risk of a wound infection?

Anyone can develop a wound infection. However people are more at risk if they have a decreased immune system, such as the elderly or people with diabetes. Some medications may put you at higher risk, for example chemotherapy and steroids. 

How to prevent a wound infection

To prevent infection, a wound should be cleaned as soon as possible and kept clean throughout the healing process. The right wound dressings should be used to protect the wound. Dressings should be changed every day or more regularly if they become soiled.

First aid officers and treating medical professionals should practice good hand hygiene when treating open wounds. That includes washing hands before and after touching the patient,  wearing disposable gloves during treatment and using sterilised equipment.

After injury, it’s important to keep the patient warm and restore their breathing and circulation as soon as possible. Staying hydrated and eating nourishing foods high in vitamin C can help the healing process. Depending on the nature of the wound, a doctor may recommend antiseptic liquids or creams to keep the wound clean and prevent infection.

How to prevent infection for surgical wounds

To prevent infection in surgical wounds, patients should have a shower and clean themselves with soap before surgery. If hair needs to be removed, it should be done so by the surgical team with sterile equipment. Wounds should be kept covered and clean after the operation.

What are the signs of an infected wound?

The signs and symptoms of an infected wound include:

  • Redness – often spreading to surrounding areas in streaks
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Heat – the wound may feel warm
  • Unpleasant odour
  • Discharge or pus
  • Wound isn’t healing

An infected wound can also lead to fatigue, aching body and fever. These are signs that the infection has spread.

What are the complications of wound infection?

Wound infections can have complications that affect the surrounding tissue as well as more serious complications that affect the entire body.

An infected wound that has stopped healing can cause high levels of pain and discomfort for the patient. In some cases, the infection can spread to the skin tissue surrounding the wound site and cause a bacterial skin infection. This is called cellulitis. Cellulitis can develop into a severe infection called sepsis.

A bacterial infection that spreads to the bone is called osteomyelitis. If a wound infection spreads to the blood, it can travel around the body and cause the patient to feel generally unwell or feverish.

How to treat a wound infection

Very minor infections sometimes heal on their own. However, most infections require antibiotics or other medication to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading. Antibiotic creams can be applied to the wound or surrounding tissue. More severe infections can be treated with oral antibiotic tablets. Infected wounds should be dressed with appropriate wound dressings, and dressings should be refreshed regularly.

Proper wound care is essential for all wounds

While not every wound will develop an infection, it’s important that all wounds are kept clean and dressed properly. Appropriate first aid can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. If a wound begins to show the signs of infection, prompt medical attention is required to prevent further complications.