What should you avoid when treating an open wound?

When treating an open wound, it is crucial to avoid removing any debris that may be embedded in the wound. This is because attempting to remove debris, particularly if it's deeply embedded or if there is bone or other vital structures involved, can cause further damage to the tissue and increase the risk of infection. Furthermore, removing debris could lead to excessive bleeding if the area is not handled correctly.

In contrast, covering the wound with a clean bandage is a fundamental step to protect the area from infection and dirt. Applying pressure to control bleeding is essential for managing any hemorrhaging effectively and helps to stabilize the patient's condition. Washing the wound with soap and water is typically recommended to clean the area, but care should be taken not to scrub aggressively, especially if debris is present. Therefore, the focus should be on protecting the wound and facilitating professional medical evaluation rather than attempting to remove anything that may cause harm.