Treating minor wounds and irritations - Skin - first aid - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Oct, 2002

While it is true that small cuts and scrapes usually do not require a visit to the emergency room, proper care is still necessary to help prevent infections and other complications, such as scarring. "Wounds heal best when they are cleaned properly, kept moist, and covered with a hydrocolloid bandage that promotes a moist healing environment," explains David J. Leffell, chief of Dermatologic and Laser Surgery, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Conn. "This means that, this time, Grandma's advice is wrong--using peroxide and letting a cut `dry out' is not beneficial to the healing process." Moist wounds will heal up to 50% faster than wounds that dry out and develop a scab, he indicates.

Here are some basic tips for treating minor wounds and skin irritations:

* If there is bleeding, apply pressure with a sterile gauze or cloth to help stop it. If heavy bleeding persists after several minutes, get immediate medical attention.

* Remove any dirt, debris, and bacteria from the wound with a moist wipe.

* Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment.

* Cover the wound with a bandage.

* If the wound becomes tender to the touch, hot, red, or oozes fluid, see a doctor. There may be an infection that can lead to improper healing and scarring.

* In some cases, a tetanus booster may be required. Call a physician to see if a shot is needed.