Wound Care Specialist

What types of wounds require care?

The providers at Schaumburg Immediate Care offer treatment for the following types of wounds:

• Abrasions, also called scrapes
• Lacerations or deep cuts
• Punctures
• Burns
• Avulsions, when tissue is torn from the body

The most common causes of wounds involve car accidents, falls, and accidents with sharp objects. The providers also offer care for diabetic wounds and recovery if you’re healing after a minor surgery and require antibacterial dressings for your wound.

When should I see a doctor for wound care?

In many cases, minor cuts and scrapes can be treated at home by carefully cleaning the wound, applying an antibacterial ointment, and covering the wound with a bandage. If your wound seems more severe or you experience any of the following issues, your wound requires more immediate medical attention:

• Bleeding lasting longer than 20 minutes
• An open wound that’s deeper than half an inch
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop with direct pressure
• Bleeding that is the result of a serious accident

The providers can also help with slow-healing wounds. In some cases, wounds may heal more slowly due to a medical condition or medications you’re taking. If this is the case, the providers can treat your wound and provide safe, at-home care options to ease any discomfort you experience.

What types of medical treatment are available for wounds?

The type of medical treatment you need depends on the type of wound you have. Common types of wound care include:

• Cleaning and irrigating the wound to remove dirt and debris
• Numbing solutions to ease discomfort, if appropriate
• Closing the wound with skin glue, sutures, or stitches
• Applying bandages and compressive gauze

Your provider may also recommend additional treatment if the risk of infection is high or you’ve been exposed to pathogens. Common options to reduce your risk of side effects from your wound include:

• Tetanus shot
• Antibiotics, such as penicillin or another prescription medication
• Antibacterial ointment
• Pain medication

If you experience a severe wound that requires surgery, the team provides the appropriate referrals.

To schedule a wound care visit at Schaumburg Immediate Care, call the office or book online now. Walk-in visits are also available.