Scrapes & Cuts

“Only those who get into scrapes with their eyes open can find the safe way out”-Logan Pearsall Smith

When children play or ride bikes, it is inevitable that they will fall and scrape a leg, knee, elbow, etc. Usually the crying will be worse than the actual injury. Most minor cuts and scrapes don't require a trip to the emergency room but proper care at home is essential to avoid infection or other complications. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Stop the bleeding
   If the blood flow is heavy or spurting (indicating a deep cut), see a doctor immediately. If the cut is more than ¼ inch deep, is gaping, has jagged edges, or has fat or muscle sticking out, go to a hospital.
   Minor cuts will stop bleeding own their own within a few minutes. If bleeding continues then apply pressure with a clean cloth for 10-20 minutes. Do not lift the cloth early and peek. This may pull off any scab that is forming. If light bleeding continues after 20 minutes, seek medical assistance.
2. Clean the wound
   Rinse out the wound with clear water. Since soap can irritate raw flesh, apply soap to the skin around the wound but keep it out of the actual wound. If dirt, rocks, grass or other debris remains in the wound after washing, use tweezers cleaned with alcohol to gently remove the particles. DO NOT dig with the tweezers as this may push items deeper into the wound or restart bleeding. If debris remains embedded in the wound after cleaning, see your doctor.
3. Apply an Antibacterial Cream
   Antibiotic ointments like Neosporin and Polysporin help keep the wound moist and prevent infection. Some people are allergic to antibiotics so stop using ointment if a rash appears. First aid books today are split on whether to apply hydrogen peroxide or iodine. These can kill the cells trying to heal the injury and may cause scarring. In my experience, hydrogen peroxide prevents scars from cat scratches. Cat claws are very dirty and a mild infection is guaranteed if the scratch is not thoroughly cleaned.
4. Cover the wound
   Apply a clean bandage to keep the open wound clean and prevent infection or reinjury.
5. Replace the dressing
   Replace the bandage daily or if it gets wet or dirty.
6. Remove the bandage once a scab has formed
   Skin heals best in open air and light. Keep the bandage on only long enough for the body to create a solid scab or seal over the wound so nothing gets inside.
7. Get a tetanus shot
   Doctors recommend a tetanus shot every 10 years. If the wound is deep, a puncture, or caused by a dirty/rusty object and the last shot was more than five years ago, your doctor may recommend a tetanus shot booster. Get the booster within 48 hours of the injury.

Bottom Line

The steps above should suffice for minor cuts and scrapes. Continue to check the wound daily for signs of infection, such as redness, increased pain, pus, warmth, or swelling. See a doctor if an infection develops.

With a minor cut, psychology may matter more then physiology. Stay calm and assure your child that all will be well once the wound is clean. Be comforting but please don’t kiss the “boo-boo” or blow on it. This adds germs to the wound.