After debridement, the area around the wound may be painful and swollen.
But your child will get medicine for pain.
It should get better in a few days.
Your care team will tell you how to take care of the bandages.
It's important to keep pressure off the wound.
Your child may have a splint to help with this.
And you can help by encouraging your child to change positions often.
You can also relieve pressure by using pillows or foam wedges for support.
Avoid letting your child bathe in a bathtub, swim, use a hot tub, or soak the area until your doctor says it's okay.
After going home, be sure that your child follows any instructions about diet or activity, and takes medicines as prescribed.
And be sure to follow any instructions for wound care.
Watch for any problems, and call your doctor if your child has problems such as new or worse pain or bleeding.
Also call your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness; red streaks leading from the area; pus draining from the area; or a fever.
And call your doctor if bright red blood soaks through the bandage.
Get emergency help right away if your child passes out or is short of breath.
You know your child best, so call your doctor if you have any questions.
If you're a little nervous right now, that's okay.
Recovery and healing take time.
But you and your child can get through this together.
