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Proper Care Helps Avoid Infection Of Cuts And Scrapes
Cuts and scrapes typically require nothing more than a good cleaning, an antibiotic ointment and a proper dressing until they heal.
Immediate treatment that follows the correct procedure is important so cuts and scrapes do not become infected. Knowing the proper procedure for taking care of cuts and scrapes, as well as knowing how to identify which ones need prompt medical treatment is important.
If the cuts or scrapes are deep, will not stop bleeding or have an unusual amount of dirt or foreign matter in them, seek professional medical advice.
Identifying Cuts And Scrapes That Need Medical Attention
Capillaries, the smallest form of arteries, are where the blood comes from most of the time when cuts and scrapes occur.A cut that is deep, gaping or has a jagged edge needs professional medical attention. Look at the cut to see if there is fat or muscle protruding. If so, the cut may require stitches.
If an artery has been cut the blood will be bright red, flow quickly and in spurts. It is essential to apply pressure to the wound and get medical help immediately when this happens.
If a vein has been cut the blood will be dark red and the blood will flow more evenly. As with an artery you should try to stop the bleeding and seek professional medical advice. Scrapes tear or pull the skin off, sometimes removing several layers of skin at once.
Most scrapes are minor and can be treated at home. The exception is when the bleeding cannot be stopped or there is damage to other tissues such as blood vessels, ligaments or bones.
Treating Minor Cuts And Scrapes At Home
Minor cuts and scrapes can be treated at home with items generally found in a first aid kit.The first step in treating cuts and scrapes at home is making sure the wound does not need professional medical attention.
Once this has been determined, wash the wound with soap and warm water.
Elevate the area that is bleeding and apply pressure for fifteen minutes. When the time is up, check the wound to see if the bleeding has slowed or stopped. If it has, then you will want to clean the wound with soap and water again, apply a triple antibiotic cream and dress the wound.
If the bleeding has not stopped, reapply the pressure for another fifteen minutes as long as you are sure you are dealing with minor cuts and scrapes. If you are in doubt, seek professional medical care.
Knowing what to do before cuts and scrapes happen will save time and help everyone remain calm in an emergency. It is also important to have the proper supplies on hand for treating cuts and scrapes.
Being prepared in an emergency, even a minor emergency like treating cuts and scrapes, can be a real life saver.