How to Stop Minor Bleeding

Minor cuts are one of life's annoyances. Deep enough for a bandage, but too small for stitches, cuts with minor bleeding become trapping pits for bacteria and stinging lemon juice. Stopping the bleeding of a minor cut isn't difficult, but does require proper technique so you don't accidentally reopen the wound. Preventing infection is also essential, particularly if the wound is on a high "germ-traffic," location, like your hands or feet.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze
• Antibacterial soap
• Paper towel
• Rubbing alcohol
• Tweezers
• Antibacterial ointment
• Adhesive bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply clean gauze directly to the wound and maintain firm pressure for 10 minutes with your hand. Do not remove the gauze during this period. Doing so could deactivate any blood clots and renew the bleeding.

• 2

  Remove the gauze once the bleeding has stopped and wash the wound with cold water and antibacterial soap. Apply the soap to a wet paper towel and gently scrub the wound free of any debris or dirt.

• 3

  Pat the wound dry with a clean paper towel. Dip your tweezers in rubbing alcohol and carefully remove any remaining debris inside the wound.

• 4

  Dab a pea-size amount of antibacterial ointment on your wound and cover with a clean adhesive bandage. Change the bandage every 12 to 24 hours or after taking a shower.