Campers and hikers often suffer superficiallacerations far from a sourceof medical care or supplies.
Campers and hikers often suffer superficiallacerations far from a sourceof medical care or supplies. In suchsituations, the lining of an eggshellcan be used as an effective barrier.After the wound is debrided and irrigatedwith water, crack an egg andimmediately-but carefully-removethe lining from the shell. Place thelining over the wound (it need not bein one piece). The eggshell lining willshrink as it conforms to the wound,thereby keeping it covered and apposingthe wound edges. This protein-rich pseudomembrane can bereapplied as necessary until furthermedical care is available.
-Scott Gulbranson, MD
Jason Wesley, MD
Grand Canyon, Ariz