Scrapes & Cuts: A Three-Step Solution for Dr. Mom

Aired on Lifetime Television
April 27 and June 8, 2008
Show 510

Scrapes and cuts are usually no big deal for Dr. Mom to handle, but serious problems can arise if a scrape or cut gets an infection. Walgreens pharmacist Helen Jung joins Dr. Lisa to discuss the best ways to treat kids' boo-boos.  Cuts and scrapes, even minor ones, can easily become infected with germs. You need to do more than just clean the cut and put on a bandage. To truly treat a cut or scrape properly, just follow three steps: clean, treat and protect. It's really important to first clean a cut or scrape and then allow it to dry. After it's dry, apply a topical antibiotic ointment to protect against infection. Keep the area moist while it heals. Use a bandage with built-in antiseptic for extra protection. And remember to change the bandage daily. Covering the wound and keeping the area moist helps it heal faster, helps prevent scarring and, most importantly, helps to protect it from infection.