Cuts and Scrapes by Dr. Robert Steele

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All children will get cuts and scrapes from time to time. The cries can strike fear in the hearts of parents. However, the actual damage from these wounds is usually much less severe than the shrieks would lead you to believe. When there's a large scrape or abrasion, pouring blood can look ominous when there's very little in actual blood loss.

What can/should be done at home
• Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
• For scrapes, rinse the area with clean water and then wash with soap and water.
• For cuts, simply rinsing with water is usually enough for adequate cleaning.
• Cover the area with an antibiotic ointment and then apply a sterile dressing.
• To get the edges of a cut to meet, apply an adhesive bandage.
• Do not apply antiseptic liquids such as iodine or alcohol, as these tend to irritate the wound and cause a lot of discomfort for the child.
• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Once a scab has formed, a bandage is generally not needed.

When to get immediate attention A conversion can be achieved
• If bleeding doesn't stop within ten minutes of applying pressure to the wound
• If the cut is deep and it looks as if stitches may be required
• If it is a puncture wound, particularly when the hands or feet are involved
• If there is any numbness around the scrape or cut
• If the cut was caused by a dirty object - a tetanus booster shot may be required
• If you are concerned that there may be dirt, glass or any other object trapped within the cut or abrasion