Cuts and scrapes are a common occurrence for every child. But are parents protecting their child’s minor wounds from infection? And, more importantly, are they aware of the signs and symptoms of infection?
What are the primary signs of infection in minor cuts?
According to Dr. Greenwald, general practitioner and mother of two, some of the key signs of infection are:
- Redness
- Any discharge (pus/greenish fluid) draining from scrape
- Signs of pain or tenderness
Other symptoms:
- Swelling
- Fever of 37.8°C or higher
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin
- Warmth around the infected area
- Red streaks extending from the infected area
We talked to parents across the country to find out. Fortunately, 66 per cent of parents are aware of visual symptoms such as redness. However, only slightly more than a third of caretakers notice swelling (35%) and discharge (30%). And only 10 per cent of parents are aware of the pain their child is experiencing1.
A skin infection typically starts after there has been a break in the skin such as a cut, burn or scrape. Bacteria can enter the wound through the opening that has been created. The most common bacteria-causing skin infections are staphylococcus and streptococcus. Risk of skin infection can be decreased with proper cleansing, application of a topical antibiotic ointment such as POLYSPORIN® antibiotic ointment, and appropriate BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages and dressings.
