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Stop
the bleeding. Minor cuts and scrapes usually stop
bleeding on their own. If not, apply gentle pressure
with a clean cloth or bandage. If bleeding persists
-- if the blood spurts or continues to flow after
several minutes of pressure, emergency care is necessary. |
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Clean
the wound. Rinse with clear water. Don't use soap
because it can irritate the wound. If dirt or debris
remains in the wound after washing, use tweezers
cleaned with alcohol to remove the particles. If
debris remains embedded in the wound after cleaning,
contact your health care provider! Don't
attempt to remove it by yourself. Thorough wound cleaning also reduces
the risk of tetanus. To clean the area around the
wound, use soap and a washcloth. Or you can use
iodine or an iodine-containing cleanser. However,
these substances are irritating to living cells.
Don't apply them on the wound. |
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Apply
antibiotic. After you clean the wound, apply a thin
layer of an antibiotic cream or ointment (such as
Neosporin or Polysporin) to help keep the surface
moist. The products don't make the wound heal faster,
but they can discourage infection and allow your
body's healing factors to close the wound more efficiently.
Certain ingredients in some ointments can cause
a mild rash in some people. If a rash appears, stop
using the ointment. |
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Cover
the wound. Exposure to air speeds healing, but bandages
can help keep the wound clean and keep harmful bacteria
out. Cover blisters that are draining until a scab
forms. |
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Change
the dressing at least daily or whenever it becomes
wet or dirty. If you are allergic to the adhesive
used in most bandages, switch to adhesive-free dressings
or sterile gauze and paper tape. These supplies
generally are available at pharmacies. |
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Watch
for signs of infection. See your health care provider
if the wound isn't healing or if you notice any
redness, drainage, warmth or swelling. |
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