Saline wound cleaning solution: benefits and correct usage

Saline solution for wound cleaning contains 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Nacl) solution. It is commonly used in first aid for minor accidents such as falls, abrasions, and cuts from sharp objects. Saline solution for wound cleaning can also be used for other purposes such as washing the nasal cavity and contact lenses, but it should not be used to soak contact lenses. Saline solution for wound cleaning can be purchased at drug stores or convenience stores. Once opened, it can be stored for about 1 month. The lid should be closed tightly and it should be kept away from light to maintain its effectiveness.

What is saline wound wash? 

Normal saline solution (NSS) is sterile saline with 0.9% sodium chloride (Nacl). Sodium chloride is an isotonic solution with the same concentration as the solution inside the body’s cells. เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา. Therefore, it does not sting, irritate, and does not damage tissue like when washing the wound with alcohol. However, normal saline solution may not be as effective at killing germs as alcohol, and it cannot kill viruses.

Benefits of saline for wound cleaning 

Saline solution for wound cleaning is commonly used in various applications such as:

• Wound cleaning: Saline solution can help clean dirt, foreign matter, and bacteria from the wound without damaging the tissue cells around the wound. It does not cause irritation or burning, and helps reduce the risk of wound infection.
• Wash the nasal cavity by injecting saline through one nostril to the other and tilt your head slightly. Do the same on both sides to flush out dirt, help clear the nasal cavity, make breathing easier, reduce postnasal drip, and relieve nasal congestion. When the nasal cavity is clean, the risk of sinus infection may be reduced.
• Clean Contact Lenses Using saline to clean contact lenses before use may help wash away chemicals from the contact lens solution and reduce the risk of eye irritation. However, saline should not be used to soak contact lenses, as it may increase the risk of infection. Contact lenses should only be soaked in contact lens solution.
• Cleansing your face can help remove dirt, such as dust and pollution, that is on your face.
• Gargle to relieve a sore throat and may help reduce bacteria in the mouth.

How to use saline to clean wounds

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry them. If this is not convenient, you can use alcohol or a disinfectant.
• Wear disposable medical gloves (if available).
• Pour saline solution onto gauze and clean around the wound.
• Apply disinfectant
• Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or plaster.

The wound should be cleaned, medicated, and the dressing changed daily to prevent infection.

How to make saline solution for wound cleaning 

You can make your own saline wound wash using the following ingredients and method.

Equipment for making saline wound wash  

1. 500 ml of boiled water or clean drinking water
2. 1 teaspoon non-iodized salt
3. Clean container with a lid for storing saline solution
4. 1 pinch baking soda (if available)

The steps for making saline wound cleanser may be as follows:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing equipment and before using the saline solution.
2. Pour water into a prepared container, add salt, and stir until dissolved.
3. Add baking soda (if you have it) and stir until dissolved, as this may help reduce skin irritation.
4. Close the container lid tightly.
5. Homemade saline solution should be stored in a cool place, such as the refrigerator, as this may reduce the risk of bacteria growing. It should be used within 24 hours after use. If it is longer than this, it should be discarded because it may be contaminated with dirt or germs.

Precautions for using saline to clean wounds

• If it is homemade saline solution, it should not be used to clean contact lenses and should be discarded after 24 hours.
• If it is saline solution for cleaning wounds that has been purchased, once opened, it will have a usable period of approximately 1 month. If it exceeds that period, it should be discarded because the saline solution inside the bottle is at risk of being contaminated with dirt, which may increase the risk of infection if used.
• Opened saline solution should be stored in a refrigerator or a place with a temperature not exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to moisture, heat, and sunlight.