In the event of an accident or emergency, quick and effective cleaning is a key step to avoid infection and accelerate wound healing. Although the gauze, alcohol cotton pads and saline commonly used in traditional first aid kits are effective, they are limited in terms of ease of operation and adaptability to scenarios. In recent years, professional medical wet wipes have gradually become an indispensable "cleaning artifact" in first aid kits due to their versatility and efficiency.
1. Why choose wet wipes? ——Three major advantages of first aid cleaning
Quickly remove pollutants
When outdoor abrasions, burns or cuts occur, the surface of the wound is often attached with mud, oil stains and even pathogens. Ordinary water rinsing may not be able to clean thoroughly, while medical wipes containing surfactants can quickly remove pollutants through the dual effects of physical friction and chemical decomposition. For example, benzalkonium chloride (Benzalkonium Chloride) wipes can also destroy bacterial cell membranes and reduce the risk of infection.
Portability and scene adaptability
CDC research shows that the golden treatment time is usually within 10 minutes after an accidental injury occurs. Individually packaged wipes can be operated with one hand without additional tools, and are suitable for traffic accidents, outdoor adventures or family emergencies. Its sealed design can also avoid cross-contamination and meet the sterility requirements of pre-hospital emergency care.
Multifunctional emergency use
In addition to treating wounds, wet wipes can be used to clean first aid tools (such as scissors and tweezers), wipe blood-stained skin, and even serve as a temporary hand washing tool when there is a lack of water. Some wet wipes containing menthol can also relieve the itching of mosquito bites.
2. Four major standards for choosing professional wet wipes
Not all wet wipes are suitable for first aid. When purchasing, pay attention to the following indicators:
Medical-grade certification
Give priority to products that have passed FDA or CE certification to ensure that the sterilization rate is ≥99.9% (such as effective against common pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli).
Ingredient safety
Avoid wet wipes containing alcohol and fragrances to avoid irritating open wounds. It is recommended to use a mild formula containing PHMB (polyhexamethylene biguanide) or hypochlorous acid.
Material and thickness
Cross-woven non-woven fabrics are more cleaning than ordinary cotton materials, and a thickness of more than 60gsm can prevent fibers from falling off when wiping.
Packaging reliability
Choose aluminum foil moisture-proof packaging or single-piece independent packaging to ensure that the first aid kit can still maintain moisture and effectiveness after being stored for several years.
III. Correct use steps in first aid scenarios
Cleaning after assessing the injury
Massive bleeding requires pressure to stop bleeding before using wet wipes. The cleaning range should be 2-3 cm larger than the edge of the wound, and wipe in a spiral "from the inside to the outside" to avoid bringing contaminants into the wound.
Cooperate with other first aid measures
Apply antibiotic ointment after cleaning and cover with sterile dressings. If it is an animal bite, it is necessary to rinse it twice with saline and seek medical attention.
Environmental protection and safe handling
The used wet wipes should be placed in a sealed bag to avoid the spread of biological contamination. Wet wipes made of biodegradable materials are more in line with outdoor first aid ethics.