Find out how much you know about taking care of wounds.
A wound heals better when it is kept moist. Applying a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to the wound before applying the bandage provides a barrier to keep the raw wound moist so it does not dry and die. A bandage can affect:
Your healthcare provider may advise a prescription antibiotic cream or ointment to help prevent infections.