CUTS, SCRAPES & MINOR SKIN INJURIES

Use a bandage to cover cuts, scrapes, and superficial skin injuries to promote optimal healing conditions and reduce the risk of infection. Ensure your first-aid kit is equipped with a variety of bandages suitable for different wound sizes.

Treatment:

• Bleeding: If bleeding occurs in extremities, elevate the wound above heart level and apply direct pressure using a clean cloth. If elsewhere on the body, lie down while maintaining pressure. If bleeding persists after 5 minutes, seek medical attention.

• Cleaning: After stemming bleeding, clean the wound to eliminate bacteria and debris:

  • Wash hands thoroughly.
  • Gently rinse the wound with cold running water.
  • Clean the area around the wound with mild soap, avoiding direct contact with the wound.
  • Use sterilized tweezers or clean gauze to remove dirt if it adheres to the wound.
  • Avoid repeated use of antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, as they can damage regenerating cells.

• Bandages: Apply a bandage to keep the wound moist, expedite healing, absorb discharge, and enhance comfort. Change dirty or wet bandages and wash off blood or secretions before applying a new one. If a bandage sticks, run water over it to dislodge it without causing bleeding.

  Tips for selecting a suitable bandage:

  • Ensure the bandage is large enough to prevent adhesive contact with the wound.
  • It should adhere to healthy skin surrounding the wound and stay in place for a few days.
  • Prevent bacteria, dirt, and water from reaching the wound.
  • Absorb fluids without drying out the wound.

  Consult your pharmacist to choose the best bandage for your specific needs.

• Medical Consultation: Seek medical attention for:

  • Human or animal bites.
  • Serious or complicated wounds (deep cuts, open wounds, crush wounds, or persistent bleeding).
  • Puncture wounds from pointed objects (nails, screws, etc.).
  • Very painful wounds.
  • Wounds from dirty or contaminated objects that remain so after careful washing.
  • Signs of infection (inflammation, redness, heat, pain, pus, fever).

  For information on first aid and kits, consult your pharmacist for personalized assistance for you and your family.