Good To Knows

Good to knows

Infections; Prevention, Identification, & Treatment, a Harm Reduction Guide For Self-harmers

[Pt: Infections; Prevention, Identification, & Treatment, a Harm Reduction Guide For Self-harmers]

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, all of the information below is based on my research. It is always best to see a doctor if you are injured. I do not promote self-harm.

Preventing infections

[Pt: Preventing infections]

Some ways you can reduce the chance of getting an infection are...

Being up to date on your vaccinations, especially your tetanus vaccination.

Using clean blades/tools. This means, if possible, always have new tools on hand. If you can not access new tools clean them (link). Always check for rust and dirt. Dispose of your tool properly (link) if any is found. Do not use a tool if you do not know where it has been. Store your tools in a clean dry place.

Self-harm in a clean environment. Make sure your hands are clean as well.

Keep cuts, burns, and other open wounds covered with wound dressings. Remember to change wound dressings regularly and to never re-use them!

Having a healthy diet, Malnourishment increases your risk of getting an infection. This is especially important to remember if you have an Eating Disorder.

Being aware of possible risk factor is also important, such as...

Being immunocompromised

Taking immunosuppressants

Being malnourished/having an eating disorder

Being diabetic

Having limited mobility

And more

Identifying infections

[Pt: Identifying infections}

Seek intimidate medical attention if you show symptoms of a serious infection, such as…

Confusion or disorientation

Feeling faint or dizzy

Irregular heartbeat and/or breathing

Cold, clammy, pale skin

Fever (body temperature of 38c (100.4 f) or higher)

Fainting

Severe muscle pain

Painful muscle spasms

And more (link)

If you do not have anyone to take you to A&E or think you need immediate emergency care call for an ambulance. A serious infection can be deadly and cannot be treated at home. Do NOT attempt to treat one without a doctor.

Symptoms of mild infection include; spreading redness, heat, or swelling near the injury, increased or new pain, increased fluid leaking from wound, yellow or greenish fluid that may smell. Some redness, pain, and (clear, not foul smelling) fluid leakage can be normal.

If you are unsure how serious an infection is see a doctor or call your local A&E’s nurse line (if in the UK call 111 or use 111 online (link)).

Treating a (mild) infection

[Pt: Treating a (mild) infection]

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms of serious infection (see above).

Even if you only have a mild infection, it is suggest that you see a doctor, especially if any of the risk factors listed at the beginning of this post apply to you. If you are unwilling to or unable to you can try and treat it at home.

To treat a mild infection…

Clean the wound with warm water and unscented anti-bacterial soap

Soak in warm water or apply a warm wet cloth for ten minutes

Apply antibiotic ointment to the infected wound(s)

Re-dress the wound. Do not reuse dressings.

Repeat this 3 times a day daily until infection subsides. If the infection worsens or does not go away seek medical attention.

If you are unsure how serious your infection is see a doctor or call your local A&E’s nurse line (if in the UK call 111 or use 111 online (link)).

If you do not feel that you can tend to your injury alone seek medical attention.