What is what to do when gauze sticks to wound?

When gauze sticks to a wound, it can be painful and disrupt the healing process. Here's what to do:

• Don't force it: Pulling the gauze off can tear newly formed tissue and restart bleeding.

• Soak the area: The key is to gently loosen the gauze. Saturate the stuck gauze with sterile saline solution. If you don't have saline, use clean, lukewarm tap water. Apply it slowly and liberally.

• Wait: Allow the liquid to soak into the gauze and soften the crusting. This may take several minutes.

• Gently peel: Once the gauze is saturated and loosened, carefully peel it away from the wound, starting at the edges. Go slowly and stop if you encounter resistance. Add more saline or water if needed.

• Clean the wound: After removing the gauze, gently clean the wound with mild soap and water or saline solution.

• Apply a non-adherent dressing: To prevent the gauze from sticking again, use a non-adherent dressing, such as Telfa or a petroleum-based gauze (like Vaseline gauze).

• When to see a doctor: If the wound is heavily infected, bleeding profusely, or you are unable to remove the gauze despite these methods, seek medical attention. Also consult a doctor if the wound shows signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, fever).