Abrasions are scrapes that occur when the top layer of skin is rubbed away, usually as a result of sliding across a rough surface. The wound may bleed, scab or scar, depending on the severity of the abrasion. According to the State of Victoria, bony, thin-skinned areas, such as the elbows, knees and ankles, are more vulnerable to this type of injury than thicker, more padded parts of the body.
Step 1
Stop any bleeding by pressing down on the abrasion with a clean cloth. Minor bleeding should stop after a few minutes. The Merck Manual recommends pressing firmly on the wound with your entire hand or a finger for a full five minutes before releasing pressure.
Step 2
Clean the wound with gentle soap and warm water. Check for any remaining dirt, gravel or other debris. If the abrasion happened on wood, small splinters may be trapped inside the wound. Remove these with tweezers to prevent infection. Avoid using alcohol, peroxide or iodine to clean the abrasion, as these may damage skin tissue and interfere with the healing process, according to the Merck Manual.
Step 3
Apply an antibiotic ointment to the abrasion, and then cover with a sterile, non-stick gauze pad. Covering the wound will reduce the chance of infection and prevent friction irritation when wearing clothing.
Step 4
Change the gauze bandage every day, or more often if the bandage becomes dirty or wet. If you notice any blood on the bandage after the first day, call a doctor for advice. You may require medical attention.
Step 5
Consult a doctor if the abrasion is very large, fails to heal within a few days, or shows signs of a possible infection, such as increased redness or swelling, severe itching, or a yellow or greenish discharge.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask your doctor about the need for a tetanus shot following any skin wound if it has been five or more years since your last vaccination.
Things You'll Need
- Clean, soft cloth
- Tweezers
- Antibiotic ointment
- Sterile, non-stick gauze bandage
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