Thread: The aftermath
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SheHulk07
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Default Jan 13, 2019 at 02:02 PM
 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Marilyn2016 View Post
By Mayo Clinic Staff

These guidelines can help you care for minor cuts and scrapes:

Wash your hands. This helps avoid infection.

Stop the bleeding. Minor cuts and scrapes usually stop bleeding on their own. If needed, apply gentle pressure with a clean bandage or cloth and elevate the wound until bleeding stops.

Clean the wound. Rinse the wound with water. Keeping the wound under running tap water will reduce the risk of infection. Wash around the wound with soap. But don't get soap in the wound. And don't use hydrogen peroxide or iodine, which can be irritating.

Remove any dirt or debris with a tweezers cleaned with alcohol. See a doctor if you can't remove all debris.

Apply an antibiotic or petroleum jelly. Apply a thin layer of an antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to keep the surface moist and help prevent scarring. Certain ingredients in some ointments can cause a mild rash in some people. If a rash appears, stop using the ointment.

Cover the wound. Apply a bandage, rolled gauze or gauze held in place with paper tape.
Covering the wound keeps it clean. If the injury is just a minor scrape or scratch, leave it uncovered.

Change the dressing. Do this at least once a day or whenever the bandage becomes wet or dirty.

Get a tetanus shot. Get a tetanus shot if you haven't had one in the past five years and the wound is deep or dirty.

Watch for signs of infection. See a doctor if you see signs of infection on the skin or near the wound, such as redness, increasing pain, drainage, warmth or swelling.

Cuts and scrapes: First aid - Mayo Clinic

I hope this helps.
I know in the USA, they often send you straight to treatment if you self harm. I don't always believe this is necessary if the lacerations are superficial. Treatment is a good option, but only if you are ready, otherwise it won't work. So, I hope some basic first aid tips help.

Love,

Marilyn
Thank you. I know the basics of first aid and do all that. My concern is when it's too deep for first aid and I have no choice but to get medical attention. I should have been more clear.
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