What is the correct field wound cleaning and dressing sequence to reduce infection risk?

• A. Rinse the wound with clean water but rub vigorously to remove debris and then apply a dressing.
• B. Irrigate with clean water to remove debris; gently clean surrounding skin; apply sterile dressing.
• C. Apply hydrogen peroxide to open wounds before dressing.
• D. Irrigate with dirty water and cover with dirty cloth.

Answer: (B)

Cleaning a wound in the field should begin with flushing out debris using clean water to physically remove contaminants without causing additional tissue damage. After irrigation, gently clean the surrounding skin to reduce bacteria near the wound without disturbing the wound itself. Then apply a sterile dressing to seal the wound from the environment and support a clean healing environment. Avoid scrubbing the wound vigorously, as this can injure tissue and push debris deeper. Also avoid hydrogen peroxide on open wounds because it can damage healthy tissue and slow healing, and never irrigate with dirty water or cover with dirty materials, which would introduce new contaminants.