This document discusses the management of acute wounds. Key points include:
- Initial assessment focuses on life-threatening injuries before wound care. Local and systemic factors affecting healing are evaluated.
- Anesthesia is usually local, but general may be needed for significant wounds. Debridement removes dead tissue and foreign bodies to reduce infection risk. Irrigation uses nontoxic solutions.
- Wounds are closed immediately, delayed, or allowed to heal based on contamination risk. Appropriate closure depends on wound type. Dressings and prophylaxis are considered.