Next Steps

Follow-up

For minor wounds that are treated and the patient discharged home, there needs to be close follow up to insure that an infection doesn't develop.

Signs of infection include fever or chills, redness, warmth, swelling, and pus at the wound site. Red streaks may develop from the wound area up the arm or the leg. These are all signs that an infection may exist and require re-evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Wound and dressing changes will need to be discussed with the care provider.