Caring for cuts and scrapes is relatively easy, and prompt care can ensure that these injuries do not become infected. Generally, cuts and scrapes will heal on their own; if a wound becomes larger, hot, extremely painful, or weepy, you may want to seek medical attention. It is also important to see a doctor for injuries caused by animal bites, or wounds with embedded material, as well as deep cuts. In younger patients, make sure to explain what you are doing as you work to make the patient more comfortable with the treatment process.
Start by cleaning the wound. Use warm water and a mild antibacterial soap to wash the injury as well as the surrounding area. While you wash cuts and scrapes, remove any pieces of material stuck in the wound. Pat the area dry, and if it is still bleeding, use direct pressure and elevation above the heart to stop the bleeding. If you want to be extra certain that the injury will not get infected, wipe it with betadine or hydrogen peroxide after washing to flush out unwanted visitors.
After washing, you can apply a small amount of antibacterial ointment or spray to cuts and scrapes. If the site is still bleeding, wait to do this, because the blood will simply flush the ointment away. If cuts and scrapes are in an area which may get dirty or rub against clothing, put a bandage over the site to protect it from the elements. Otherwise, exposure to air can actually help to heal cuts and scrapes.
If you do decide that an injury needs a bandage, remove the bandage at least once a day to clean the wound and check on the healing progress. Also change a bandage if it gets wet. In a case where a band-aid does not fit, use a gauze dressing and surgical tape; keep these supplies around in your first aid kit, as they can be extremely useful. If you leave cuts and scrapes unbandaged, wash and check on them on a daily basis, looking for signs of infection.
Cuts and scrapes do put you at a higher risk for tetanus infection. Tetanus boosters are recommended every 10 years. If you're not sure when your last tetanus injection was, another booster won't hurt, and it can prevent the onset of this painful and difficult condition. Tetanus is a serious concern when your cuts and scrapes are caused by unclean metal and puncture wounds in farmyards and other areas with waste material from humans and animals.
