Cuts and Scrapes:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, July 16 and October 29, 2005
Show 218

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

Has this happened to you. You're busy in the kitchen peeling carrots. You get distracted and just like that, you slice your finger. Well, here's some advice for treating minor cuts and scrapes at home.

Rochelle Guyse, RPh:

Minor cuts and scrapes usually stop bleeding on their own. However, if they don't, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or a bandage. Hold the pressure until the bleeding stops. If blood still continues to flow after that, please seek medical assistance. For most minor cuts and scrapes, rinse out the wound with clear water. Use soap and a wash cloth to clean the area around the wound, not in the wound. If there is anything in the wound that you can't flush out, see your doctor immediately. After cleaning the wound, apply a thin layer of antibiotic cream or ointment. You should definitely seek medical attention if you have any of the following conditions. Deep cuts that don't stop bleeding and can't easily close. Those may need stitches. Redness, drainage, warmth or swelling of the wound are possible signs of infection. Or if your last tetanus shot was more than five years ago, you should also seek medical advice.