A patient presents with an abrasion on her arm. She has a known allergy to Neomycin, a common ingredient in over-the-counter topical antibiotic ointments. What should be recommended?
Given her allergy, she should avoid antibiotic ointments that contain neomycin. She can use a topical antibiotic that she is not allergic to, if available, or she could use a simple petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist and help prevent infection. The wound should be covered with a clean dressing. As always, she should watch for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, or pus.