Cuts and Scrapes

People throughout time has been wondering on what is the best way to deal with little cuts,scrapes or abrations of that we get in the course of our everyday lives. Lots of remedies have enjoyed popularity over the years but the simple truth is, most small wounds dont really need much medical attention.

The most effective way in treating a small wound is a simple two step method.

1. Stop the Bleeding - apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or tissue. If possible, elevating the wounded part above heart level slows down blood flow.

2. Avoiding Infection - the main concern in dealing with wounds of any kind is infection and the best way to do it is to clean the wound and keeping it clean.

Cleansing a scrape or cut by gently swabbing with a clean cloth or holding the wound under cool running water. Use a mild soap in the area but try to make sure that you dont get the soap INTO the wound as that will surely sting!

If there are particles of dirt or any foreign bodies in the scraped shin or elbow, it is best removed with a pair of disinfected tweezers.

If the wound is on the hand or finger, its more likely to get dirty fast. The best way to treat this after washing it is to apply a store-bought or homenade bandage.

Really folks,this are the only things we ca ndo for the little cuts and scrapes we encounter as most wounds of this types heal in a week or so.

1. When the bleeding comes in spurts - This indicates that an artery has been cut or penetrated. Covering the wound with a large soft cloth and whenever possible elevate the wounded part above the heart level.

Apply pressure directly over the wound to help stop or lessen blood flow; apply additional compress or cloth over the wound if needed, but never use a tourniquet as this may contribute to nerve damage in the immediate area.

2. When the cuts appear very deep or the edges of the wound gape open - This type is called a jagged cut which is typical of a wound inflicted by broken glass. This wound is likely to need medical attention as stiches may be required to close the injury.

3. If the person has facial injuries - this is because the victim might need plastic surgery to prevent or lessen the scarring of the wound area.

4. If the victim incurred a deep puncture wound - This is especially urgent if it was made by a dirty object such as a rusty nail,a gardening tool or a dirty knife.

As always,if you find yourself in any of the situations stated above call your doctor or proceed immediately to the nearest emergency room for the proper care and attention.