The Benefits of Antimicrobial Wound Care

Posted by Yesenia
10/24/2016

This article presents the benefits of antimicrobial wound care. It is not intended to promote its use or refute any arguments against its use. Before deciding to use antimicrobial products to care for wounds, as well as any other measures that affect your health, talk to an appropriate medical professional.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it requires proper care when compromised by a cut, scrape, or other wound. For decades, people have used hydrogen peroxide, iodine, silver, and even honey for wound care because of their antimicrobial properties. Some ointments claim to help a wound heal faster and leave less of a scar. What exactly are antimicrobials and what are the benefits of using them?

What are Antimicrobials?

Antimicrobials are agents that kill microorganisms. Antimicrobials include disinfectants, antiseptics, and antibiotics. Disinfectants are primarily used for non-living things, not for wound care. Antiseptics and antibiotics are both used for wound care; antiseptics work to prevent infection while antibiotics work to eliminate infection. Antibiotic creams and ointments have additives that help keep the wound surface moist. It is the moisture, not the product itself, that makes the wound heal faster. Still, topical antibiotics may discourage infection which can help the body’s natural healing process. Antimicrobial products are generally used for treating a minor cut or scrape at home.

Antimicrobial dressings protect a wound from microorganisms and suppress the spread of bacteria. These dressings are especially useful for health care facilities, offering a measure of protection for both the patient and the caregiver.

Antimicrobials to Help Prevent Infection

Virtually all open wounds have microorganisms, but these often heal as expected with no further clinical issues. However, if an infection occurs, the wound may not heal properly without antimicrobial therapy. The deeper tissues surrounding the wound may become infected, which can eventually affect the entire body. In the medical industry, there are many questions regarding the usefulness of antimicrobial wound care. There is much information to be found which argue both sides of the debate. In any case, talk with your medical provider before deciding to use or discontinue using an antimicrobial product. If you decide to use antimicrobial wound care, Med Lab Supply can offer you a variety of products at reasonable prices.