How to Care for Minor Abrasions and Scratches

Treating cuts right away lessens the chance that an infection will start.

Things You'll Need

  • Adhesive Bandages
  • Antibacterial Ointments
  • Antibacterial Soaps
  • Butterfly Bandages
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash your hands before and after tending a wound.

    • 2

      Rinse the wound with clean water. Flush out all dirt and debris.

    • 3

      Using clean gauze, put pressure on the wound to stop any bleeding.

    • 4

      Clean the area around the injury with soap and water or Betadine, but avoid getting any solution inside the wound.

    • 5

      Leave the wound open to the air unless there is a chance that you'll be exposing it to dirt or infection. In that case, bandage the wound loosely, allowing air to get in.

    • 6

      If the wound edges are open, use a butterfly bandage'a butterfly-shaped bandage that brings the edges of the wound together and reduces scarring'to close straight, clean, superficial wounds.

    • 7

      Call your doctor if you detect signs of infection, which include redness, warmth, redness up the arm, or oozing or drainage from the wound.

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