How do I remove a bandage that has stuck to a wound?

Adhesive bandages commonly adhere to wounds due to wound exudate or bleeding, leading to localized fibrous adhesion of the skin. The specific management steps are as follows:

1. First, clean the skin surrounding the wound with a sterile, moist towel to prevent contamination and subsequent infection.

2. Next, use either normal saline or hydrogen peroxide solution. Soak a sterile cotton swab in the solution, or fill a spray bottle with the solution and apply it directly onto the adhered area to moisten it thoroughly.

3. Wait 3–5 minutes to allow the adhesive site to become adequately hydrated and softened, then gently and slowly peel off the adhesive bandage.

4. After removal, rinse the wound under running tap water for at least five minutes, followed by two applications of iodophor using a circular disinfection technique.

5. Finally, as directed by a healthcare provider, apply an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ointment—such as chlortetracycline ointment—uniformly over the wound.

If adhesion is severe, consult a qualified healthcare professional at an accredited medical facility for appropriate management.