When hiking, biking, or exploring in the backcountry, injury can happen too easily. If you find yourself needing to treat minor cuts, scrapes and gouges, it’s important to know the best way to go about it. After all, you don’t have access to the same resources you might have at home. This guide will provide you with the tools and resources you need to keep yourself safe and healthy when treating minor wounds in the backcountry.
Gather Supplies
Before tending to any injuries, it is important to gather the supplies you need. Some of these items are likely to be in any backcountry first-aid kit, but you should double check to ensure that you have everything. These essentials include adhesive bandages, gauze pads, athletic tape, alcohol wipes, antiseptic ointment and scissors.
Adhesive Bandages
Adhesive bandages come in a variety of sizes and is generally used to stop a wound from bleeding. It is also an important tool for keeping gauze in place on a wound.
Gauze Pads
Gauze pads are used to cover wounds, protecting them from bacteria and dirt. They can also help to absorb any blood or fluids drainage from the wound.
Athletic Tape
Athletic tape is used to secure gauze or other coverings to the wound as an alternative to adhesive bandages.
Alcohol Wipes
Alcohol wipes can help to minimize the risk of infection by cleaning the surface of the wound.
Antiseptic Ointment
Using antiseptic ointment is important to minimize the risk of infection. It can also to soothe the wound and help to promote healing.
Scissors
Using scissors to cut bandages or gauze can make the healing process easier and more efficient.
Clean and Dress the Wound
Once you have the supplies you need, it’s time to clean and dress the wound. Start by gently cleaning the area with a sterile cloth, water, or an alcohol wipe. Remove any visible dirt from the wound with a piece of cotton. Once the wound is clean, cover it with a gauze pad or other covering. Secure the gauze with either surgical tape or adhesive bandages. Finally, add a layer of antiseptic ointment and replace the dressing every day until the wound is healed.
Treat Pain and Inflammation in the Backcountry
Once you’ve cleaned and dressed the wound, you’ll need to treat the pain and inflammation. Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation and pain. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the injured areas can help to reduce swelling, as well.
Consult a Doctor
If the wound does not heal in a reasonable amount of time or if the pain or inflammation worsens, it is important to consult a doctor for further treatment. Your doctor may recommend antibiotics, if there is an infection, or other more serious treatments.
People Also Ask
What Should You Do if You Cut Yourself in the Backcountry?
If you cut yourself while in the backcountry, it is important to clean the wound and keep it covered to reduce the risk of infection. You should also take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen and apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling.
Do I Need a First Aid Kit to Treat Cuts, Scrapes and Gouges in the Backcountry?
Yes, it is important to have a first aid kit in the backcountry to treat minor cuts, scrapes and gouges. Your first aid kit should contain adhesive bandages, gauze pads, athletic tape, alcohol wipes, antiseptic ointment and scissors.
How Long Should Wounds Take to Heal in the Backcountry?
Minor cuts and scrapes should heal in 5-10 days in the backcountry, if it is properly cared for. If the wound is not healing properly or the pain and inflammation is worsening, then medical attention should be sought.
What Should You Do if You Don’t Have Access to a First-Aid Kit?
If you don’t have access to a first-aid kit, you can improvise with items that you may have on hand such as: clean cloths, cotton, antiseptic ointment, a clean rock or stick, and tree sap.
When Should I Consult a Doctor About Wounds in the Backcountry?
If the wound does not appear to be healing after a week or if the pain or inflammation is worsening, then it is important to consult a doctor for further treatment.
Final Words
Treating minor cuts, scrapes and gouges in the backcountry does not have to be a daunting task. With the right supplies and the knowledge of how to best treat these minor injuries, you can have peace of mind when you are outdoors. If the wound does not appear to be healing properly or the pain and inflammation is worsening, then it is important to consult a doctor for further treatment. With the right knowledge, you can be well-prepared to keep yourself safe and healthy when out in the backcountry.