Wound cleansing
Most wounds are cleaned with running tap water or sodium chloride 9 mg/ml. Chlorhexidine solution is used when the wound is contaminated or the risk of infection is judged to be raised.
Irrigation solution, chlorhexidine solution and wound cleansing wipes for cleaning before the wound is dressed. Sodium chloride 9 mg/ml in 250–1,000 ml, chlorhexidine 1 and 2 mg/ml, and single-use wipes for the first aid bag. From Fresenius Kabi, B. Braun, Cederroth, Vitri and Steroplast.
Wound cleansing — all products
Frequently asked questions about wound cleansing
Can you clean a wound with ordinary tap water?
Yes. On a fresh, superficial wound, running tap water of drinking quality is perfectly sufficient, and the volume of water matters more than what you irrigate with. Sodium chloride 9 mg/ml is preferable when the wound is deeper, when it lies close to the eye, or when there is no clean tap nearby.
Should chlorhexidine be used on every wound?
No. Clean, fresh wounds only need irrigating. Chlorhexidine is used when the wound is contaminated, when time has passed before cleaning, or when the risk of infection is judged to be raised. It must never go in the eyes or the ears, and it does not replace mechanical cleaning — dirt has to be flushed or picked out.
How long does an opened bottle of irrigation solution last?
Assume the sterility is spent as soon as the bottle has been opened and left standing. For a first aid station or a bag that is used rarely, smaller packs or single-use wipes are therefore both safer and cheaper in the long run. Always check the expiry date at the regular review of the bag.
Guides for Wound cleansing
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