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Wilderness: Surgeonfish Cuts (cont.)

Surgeonfish Cuts Treatment

  • For pain relief from a surgeonfish cut, soak the wound in water as hot as is tolerable.

  • Use tweezers to remove the blade or spine.

  • Scrub the wound with soap and fresh water.

  • Do not close the wound with tape or stitches. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding.

  • Apply antibiotic ointment if signs of infection occur, such as pus, redness, or heat.

  • Oral antibiotics are usually recommended to prevent infection. Continue antibiotics for at least 5 days after all signs of infection have cleared. Inform your doctor of any drug allergy prior to starting any antibiotic. Certain antibiotics can cause sensitivity to the sun, so use a sunscreen.



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