Wounds come in many forms, with cuts, scrapes and punctures being the three primary categories, as explained by the Merck Manual. While scars are not always preventable, proper administration of first aid can reduce the likelihood of permanent markings and help the skin's natural healing process. It also protects against infection, the most common complication from wounds. Infection results when a wound is contaminated with dirt and bacteria.
Step 1
Stop the wound's bleeding. Most small wounds stop bleeding without treatment, but moderate to firm application of pressure for five minutes usually stops bleeding as well, according to the Merck Manual. Press down on the wound with a clean cloth or piece of gauze. If possible, hold the wound above heart level to slow the blood flow. The Mayo Clinic states that up to half an hour of compression may be needed, but further bleeding requires medical assistance, as does continuous spurting blood.
Step 2
Rinse the wound with cool water once bleeding stops. Gently clean around the wound with soap, but Family Doctor cautions not to get soap in the wound itself, as this may lead to irritation.
Step 3
Remove any debris inside the wound. To avoid infection, use tweezers sterilized with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). If there is debris in the wound you can't extract, see your doctor. As the Merck Manual explains, injuries with foreign material left inside are likely to develop an infection.
Step 4
Rub an antibiotic ointment or cream over the wound and surrounding area. The Mayo Clinic recommends this measure to keep the wound's surface moist, to reduce the risk of infection and to promote the skin's natural healing process. Avoid use of harsher disinfectants like alcohol, iodine and peroxide, as they can damage tissue and interfere with skin's ability to heal, according to the Merck Manual.
Step 5
Protect the wound from getting wet or dirty by covering it with a bandage. Family Doctor says this is unnecessary if the wound is in a place where it won't get wet, dirty or irritated by clothing, but otherwise, covering the wound is important for preventing infection. Change bandages daily or if they get wet, and remove them as soon as the wound begins visibly healing, as air exposure contributes to the skin's healing process, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 6
Get stitches for wounds more than 1/4 inch long, that have jagged or separated edges, fat or muscle exposed, or that appear deep.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep large scrapes moisturized and clean to help the skin heal without scarring or infection. Bandages labeled "occlusive" or "semiocclusive" are designed for use on such wounds.
- Seek medical attention if you experience numbness or loss of mobility as a result of your wound; if it becomes inflamed, tender or surrounded by red streaks; or if it oozes pus or otherwise appears infected. If you haven't had a tetanus shot in the past five years, it is advisable to get a booster after a deep or dirty wound. Refrain from picking scabs. They are part of the skin's healing process and a defense against infection. Picking scabs increases the likelihood of scarring.
Things You'll Need
- Cloth or gauze
- Tweezers
- Rubbing alcohol
- Topical antibiotic
- Bandage
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