Wounds can be classified as minor or major depending on their extent in terms of size and how deep they are. Minor wounds can turn to be a major problem if they are not handled in the right way. Regardless of whether a cut is minor or major immediate intervention is crucial to avoid more damage from happening. To ensure that the cut do not turn to be a major health issues follow these first aid steps.
First Aid Steps for Minor Cuts
The first thing that you need to do is to check the wound to determine how dangerous it may be. If the wound shows the following signs you need to call 911 or any other efficient emergency service provider.
- If blood is spurting out profusely
- If the cut has a lot of bleeding
- In case the bleeding cannot stop after ten minutes or steady pressure or any other method used.
It is good to check whether the wound may require stitching because a cut should be stitched within six hours from the time it occurred. The only exceptions are the minor cuts that occur to the scalp and face which can be stitched within twenty four hours.
Stop or Reduce the Bleeding
After examining the wound, you need to try to stop the bleeding immediately. You can do this by applying direct pressure on the minor cut.
Clean the Wound and Prevent Infection
- Use warm water and gentle shop to cleanse the cut to remove any dirt that may bring germs to the wound.
- To minimize the risk of infection, you need to put an antibiotic ointment. Only use ointment that is approved and follow the instructions. If the ointment applied leads to a rash, stop applying it.
- Put a sterile bandage on the minor cuts to cover and offer more protection.
- Put a sterile bandage on the area. In some people, antibiotic ointments may cause a rash. If this happens, stop using the ointment.
When to Call for Emergency Help
You should call for medical help in case of the following:
- The minor cut is over the joint.
- If it becomes hard to get the cut or make the laceration clean.
- You should also call for medical help if the victim has not received tetanus injection or booster for the last five to ten years.
- Minor cuts caused by animal or human bite also require to be attended by a physician.
If the wound get treated at home, remove the bandage after some few days to boost the healing process.