Simple cuts and abrasions is easily treated with first aid if the cut is not too deep or the damage is not too serious. Severe wounds, wounds that bleed profusely, or wounds that haven’t stopped bleeding after 15 minutes or so should be taken straight to the hospital or a doctor. For non-serious wounds, the following steps can be done as first aid treatment:
- If the wound is bleeding, apply continuous pressure to it using a clean cloth or dressing. Elevate if necessary to help stop the bleeding.
- Clean the area once the bleeding has stopped. Be sure to remove foreign debris.
- You can use flowing tap water or sterile saline solution to clean the wound, but be careful not to cause further bleeding.
- Apply a topical antiseptic to the area, then cover the wound with a dressing. Be sure that the dressing you are going to use retains moisture to encourage healing. Wounds heal faster if they are kept in a moist environment, and it also reduces the chances of scarring.
Please see us in store to be able to help you with your wound care needs. We offer a large variety of products that are suitable for most wounds and abrasions.
We do recommend for you to go straight to your doctor if you or your wound:
- Is deep or dirty (risk for tetanus infection)
- Has foreign objects embedded in such a way that it is impossible to remove them safely
- Is bleeding profusely
- Is infected
- If you have certain medical conditions (ex. Diabetes or immunocompromised)
- If the patient is very old or very young
- If you have a fever that started after you got the wound
