[bitomato]

Hi hun,
Well I assume that you have to have a follow up to get the stitches out?
Obviously you do not know why the doctor acted in that manner but maybe you can ask your worker what they thought- because there is always the possibility that in your distress you did not perceive everything accurately.

Hand washing is also a very important part of infection control; but I do agree that if you see something weird it is better to ask the doctor. Sometimes cleaning may do more damage if clotting has begun, or you are actually pulling dirt into the wound if not done in the right direction/ properly.

He may also have assumed it was cleaned when you were first brought in e.g. by a nurse.

From experience, get a thermometer as well, and note your temperature as some infection is not visible externally.

It is very difficult, but some doctors will be frustrated because they see the harm you are doing to yourself and they can only give you stitches. They may want to make you stop- have a discussion about that- but at the acute stage that is not appropriate.

Your body's ability to heal is compromised once you harm. Your skin is a wonderful protector- so he did have a point, that even with the most cleaning of the wound- if bacteria etc. is introduced from the initial SI- the problem is still there.

Maybe go back to a doctor and have the wound checked and redressed, rather than doing it yourself. Otherwise, really consider taking steps to stopping the SI. There are more consequences than you want to consider.