Incision Care after Skin Biopsy in the Neurology Clinic
This handout will describe how to take care of your wound when you are at home.
Supplies you will need
- Cotton swabs (Q-tips®) or gauze pads
- Polysporin® or Bacitracin® Ointment – 1 tube
- Band-Aids®
Clean Your Wound
Begin cleaning your wound 24 hours after your procedure. Clean the wound daily until the crust falls off and the skin is a thin pink line with no open areas.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
- Remove the old dressing. Throw it away.
- Using a clean washcloth or gauze pad, gently wash each wound with soap and water. The crust will come off gradually as you clean the wound. Do not force the crust off.
- Apply Polysporin® or Bacitracin® to a clean cotton swab. Roll the cotton swab over the wound to spread the ointment. Use a clean cotton swab for each site.
- Cover with a Band-Aid® to protect the site until the wound has healed over.
Infection
Infection is not common. Look for these signs daily:
- Temperature greater than 100.4º by mouth for 2 readings taken 4 hours apart
- Increased tenderness or swelling at site
- Blood or pus-like drainage
- Redness that spreads out from the wound
Pain
Most patients have little or no pain. If your wound is painful, you may take Tylenol® every 3 to 4 hours as needed.
Activity
You may return to your normal routine as you are able.
Biopsy Results
The results will be given to your doctor who ordered the biopsy. Please contact him or her for results.
The results will be available in ___________.
Phone Numbers
If any problems occur at the site, contact the Neurology Clinic.
Neurology Clinic phone number - (608) 262-0547, M-F, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After hours or weekends, call the hospital operator at (608) 262-0486 and ask for the neurology doctor on call. Give the operator your name and phone number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.
If you live out of the area, please call: 1-800-323-8942.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 03/31/2008
Copyright © 05/03/2006 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6353
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