Summer First Aid Tips Cuts, Scrapes and Minor Wounds

Treatment for cuts, scrapes and minor wounds often doesn't require emergency medical attention. However, it is still important to make sure that these injuries are addressed with proper first aid to prevent infection and promote healing.

First Aid Tips

1. Bleeding. The body has a natural way to stop open wound from bleeding. Small cuts and scrapes often stop bleeding on their own, but if they don't, gently apply pressure on the opening with a bandage or a clean cloth. Hold the pressure for 10 to 20 minutes or until bleeding stops. Do not regularly check if the blood has clotted for it may damage fresh clot and may cause the bleeding to resume. Seek for medical help if there is still bleeding after continuous pressure.
2. Cleaning. Never use alcohol to clean the wound. There is no need to use iodine, cleanser containing iodine, or hydrogen peroxide either. Soap can irritate the wound. Running water is enough. Flush the wound with running water to remove dirt or debris in the wound. Use sterile tweezers to remove the remaining foreign objects that are still on the wound after flushing. It is important to follow this procedure to prevent tetanus and infection.
3. Antibiotic. Applying a thin layer of ointment and antibiotic cream like Neosporin and Polysporin on the surface of the wound will keep it moist. These discourage infection and help the body to heal itself naturally and more efficiently.
4. Dressing. Cover the wound with clean cloth or bandage to absorb wound fluid, keep harmful bacteria away and keep the natural moisture balanced which is ideal for healing and allows new skin cells to migrate together and form new tissue.
5. Changing the dressing. Change the dressing at least once a day or if the dressing becomes wet or dirty. If your skin reacts negatively to adhesive bandages, you can switch to adhesive-free dressings or sterile gauze held in place by gauze roll, paper tape or loosely applied elastic bondage. These are widely available at pharmacies. Keep the wound dressed until it is completely healed.
6. Stitches. More serious wounds and cuts that are at least 6mm or 0.25 inch deep may require stitches. Jagged edged wound with protruding fat and muscle tissues require stitches as well.
7. Infection. Watch out for signs of infection. If the wound is not healing or if you see drainage, redness, and swelling or if you feel increasing pain and warmth, see a doctor immediately.