We all know that feeling. One minute you’re chopping vegetables, the next, there’s blood all over the counter and you’re putting pressure on a nasty cut. This is one of the most common injures the average person experiences. The first aid process for cuts and scrapes may seem simple, but there is much more to it than slapping a band-aid on the wound. Listed below are the proper steps for cleaning and treating a shallow cut.
Step 1: Stop the bleeding
First things first, put some pressure on the cut using gauze or a towel to stop the bleeding. Remember to be patient as this can take some time. It’s important to assess the wound as you do so. If it appears to be excessively deep, wide or the bleeding won’t stop, you may require stitches and should seek professional help immediately. Once the bleeding has been stopped, you can move on.
Step 2: Wash the Wound
Removing dirt and debris will ensure the cut heals quickly and devoid of infection. If possible, wash your hands before doing this, or have someone with clean hands assist you. Simply place the injured area under running water to remove any surface level debris before using alcohol to sterilize it. This may sting but is worth it for the sake of killing any bacteria already in the wound. Most first aid kits have small alcohol wipes for this very purpose. Remember: the goal is to get it sterile, not just clean.
Step 3: Apply antibiotics
Applying antibiotic ointment is a safeguard against infection and will prevent the wound from drying out. This will result in a quicker, much more comfortable healing process. Even applying petroleum jelly can help the heal go smoother. While this may seem unneeded at first, small things like this can make all the difference.
Step 4: Apply bandage
Next is the most obvious part, applying a bandage. This keeps it covered, clean and comfortable. The type of bandage needed varies depending on the wound, ranging from small band aids to large gauze wraps. It’s important to change the bandage out periodically to keep it clean. Unsanitary conditions are the archenemy of the healing process and aside from bleeding control, cleanliness is top priority. Having a first aid kit in your home, car and workplace will ensure you have bandages when you need them.
Step 5: Monitor for infection
Remember to beware signs of infection. When the skin is broken, the floodgates open for armies of bacteria to enter your body and make you sick. Infected wounds can lead to delayed healing and other issues such as increased pain, fever, puking, and aches. Failure to prevent or treat infection can turn your small cut into a health nightmare. When inspecting the cut for infection, look out for green or yellow leakage, overheated skin, rashes and unpleasant smells. Be sure to consult a professional immediately if such symptoms are present.
Step 6: Consider a tetanus vaccination
If you’re not up to date on it, a tetanus vaccination is an important way to safeguard against further health risks. Tetanus is a deadly disease and should be taken seriously. A single booster shot goes a quite a long way, even up to a decade, so it shouldn’t be too much of a hassle. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider about getting one if it’s been some time. Overall, treating a cut or scrape is pretty straightforward. Stop the bleeding, clean it out and get it covered. Make sure to keep an eye out for infection and don’t forget the antibiotics. Thankfully, basic knowledge of first aid will make you well prepared for most of these types of situations. Remember that while training is invaluable, prevention is just as important. Practice good knife safety, have a first aid kit ready and just be prepared to jump into action when someone gets hurt. If you find first aid fascinating and would like to learn more, then you should see what Idaho Medical Academy has to offer. Along with first aid courses, we offer high quality training for EMT’s, medical assisting, phlebotomy, medical coding, pharmacy technician, a variety of CPR courses and more! Our programs are designed to prepare anyone for when disaster strikes or for their dream medical career. For more information, give us a call today!
