Wound-care guide · Patients and families

Wound warning signs that need prompt medical review

It can be hard to know whether a change can wait. Some wound changes should be reported the same day, while severe symptoms require emergency care.

Report rapid changes rather than waiting for a routine visit

Describe both the wound and the patient’s overall condition

Use emergency services for life-threatening symptoms

Call the treating clinician promptly

These changes may indicate infection, tissue damage, bleeding or failure of the current plan.

Spreading redness, warmth or swelling
New odor, pus or a major increase in drainage
Increasing pain, fever, chills or weakness
A wound that suddenly opens or becomes deeper

Seek urgent or emergency evaluation

Do not use a website form for an emergency.

Uncontrolled bleeding
Severe breathing difficulty or sudden confusion
A cold, blue or black limb
Visible deeper organs or tissue after a surgical wound opens

Call 911 when appropriateThis guide provides general information. Follow the treating clinician’s instructions and use emergency services when symptoms are severe.