Incision and Drainage (Abscess) Wound Care Instructions

  1. Leave pressure dressing on and dry for 24 hours.
  2. Clean area with soap and water in shower.
  3. Gently pull packing strip out ½-1 inch and cut with scissors.
  4. Apply Vaseline to wound.
  5. Apply non-stick dressing or pad and tape.
  6. If there is still drainage, you may put gauze over non-stick pad. Do not put gauze directly over wound. It will stick to the packing and possibly pull it out at the next dressing change.
  7. Do this once a day until packing is gone.
  8. Continue wound care after packing is out until wound is healed.