Think back to your childhood. How many times did you fall down and getting yourself injured? These injuries then result in cuts and scrapes on your skin. Over time, we learn to be more cautious and careful when growing up. We do not injure ourselves so easily anymore. But what if you just stumble upon an accident that could not be avoided? These would inevitably result in cuts and scrapes again. Here are some tips you can read and take it to practice.
1. You should always try to stop the bleeding as soon as possible.
How to do this? It is simple. Just apply steady pressure by using a clean cloth (not old cloth or rags). You can even use tissue but this is not advisable as the tissue fibers might stick onto the wound. Then keep the pressure on the affected area. This should stop the bleeding. Look around you. Are there any objects that you can use? Use these objects to elevate your feet (if the injured area is at your feet). This will prevent the heart from supplying too much blood to the wound. Generally, doctors advise you against the use of tourniquet.
2. Cleanse your wound
You should only use soap and water, nothing else. Avoid using high pressure water or water that is contaminated. If possible, use mild soap. You should wash it cleanly and make sure there is no dirt or grit left on the cut. Should you want to use another different cleanser other than soap, consider some cleansers from the pharmacy like 'Hibiclens'. What if your wound is very dirty? Then you should use hydrogen peroxide. This solution can ease off the stubborn debris. You should take extra precautions because the hydrogen peroxide is capable of damaging your other skin areas.
3. Consider anti bacterial solution
This type of medicine can be effective when it comes to treating cuts and scrapes. If you just want to go to the pharmacy and avoid seeing your doctor, you should look for solutions like Polysporin or Neosporin.The former ointment is preferred because it has less chances to cause you allergy, if compared to the latter ointment.
4. Then, you should cover your wound
This is done by applying butterfly strips or bandage or gauze. This final step is very important as it prevents further chances of infection. It also makes the cut heal faster other than reducing the potential of scarring problems in future. But you should only close your wound only after cleaning it properly.