A stab wound is one that penetrates the skin and the flesh. Depending on the object causing the damage, the wound may penetrate muscle, fat and even organs. Treatment should be administered by a medical professional and not attempted at home. While waiting for treatment, the patient can apply pressure directly to the wound to reduce blood loss.
Cleansing
A number of procedures are carried out to cleanse the stab wound and to check that nothing has been lodged in the skin. These procedures include the use of sterile water, saline solution, hydrogen peroxide or various other agents to irrigate the wound, according to Georgia's Health Sciences University. The doctor may probe around inside the wound gently to look for foreign objects to remove. These items will be withdrawn and more rinsing will take place.
Dressing the Wound
A dressing will be applied to the wound to promote healing and protect the area from infectious agents. The type of dressing used will depend on the severity of the wound. Some options listed by Georgia's Health Sciences University include sterile gauze, thread for suturing, butterfly bandages or staples. During this time, a patient may need intravenous fluids or blood transfusion if blood loss was great.
Drugs
Intravenous anesthesia will be administered to a patient when necessary, such as when the wound requires suturing, is severe or requires surgery. Topical or injection anesthesia is used for all other situations. Antibiotics may be given or prescribed to prevent or treat an infection. A tetanus vaccine may be administered to prevent infection from tetanus spores entering the wound.
Aftercare
Following treatment of the wound, a patient may be sent home with pain medication or orders on what over-the-counter medicines to take. A follow-up appointment within 48 hours is common procedure to remove sutures, butterfly bandages or staples, explains Georgia's Health Sciences University. A follow-up appointment is also likely to check for proper healing and infection.
