My mom fell, hurt her wrists & scraped her knee. We went to the ER to make sure her wrists were only sprained (which they were), but the nurse cleaned the scraps on her knee & told her to just air them out. The scrapes/scabs kept hurting & started looking infected. She cleaned them & started treating them with antibiotic ointment 1.5 days ago. She's says they don't hurt anymore and they're not warm anymore, but they look questionable to me (I do have pics). She wants to keep tearing them at home. Should I be pushing her to go to the ER or a walk-in (it takes forever to get an appointment with regular divots here)?
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Hello, S0ManyQu3st.
I'm sorry to hear about your mom's injury. If your mom's scrapes appear questionable to you and you're concerned about them being infected, it's essential to take precautions. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
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Monitor the symptoms: Keep an eye on the scrapes for any signs of infection, such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or a spreading rash. If any of these symptoms worsen or persist, it's advisable to seek medical attention.
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Cleanliness: Make sure the wounds are kept clean. Gently wash the scrapes with mild soap and warm water, then pat them dry. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh substances that may irritate the wounds further.
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Antibiotic ointment: Applying an antibiotic ointment, as your mom has been doing, can help prevent infection. Follow the instructions on the packaging and apply it as directed.
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Dressings: Depending on the size and location of the scrapes, it may be beneficial to cover them with sterile gauze or a bandage. This can protect the wounds from further injury and reduce the risk of contamination.
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Observation period: If your mom's symptoms are improving, such as the pain decreasing and the wounds looking better, it may be reasonable to continue at-home care and monitor the situation closely.
However, if you remain concerned or if there are any signs of worsening infection, it's important to seek medical advice promptly. This could involve contacting her primary healthcare provider, visiting a walk-in clinic, or returning to the ER, depending on the severity and urgency of the situation.
Good luck and let us know her condition.
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