The Basics of First Aid for Cuts
You might not think about it much, but our body contains a lot of blood. In other words, every drop counts.
One common injury people suffer is a cut. Unless you have proper first aid for cuts, these injuries can cause severe complications. The bleeding could take too long to stop, the wound could become infected, or other issues could arise.
If you or someone you know suffers a cut, this guide’s for you! Read on to learn how to care for a cut when needed.
Stop the Bleeding
The key to stopping the bleeding is applying firm pressure to the affected area with a clean cloth or bandage. If a wound is severe and continues to bleed despite pressure, elevate the limb above the heart and continue to apply pressure.
In the case of severe bleeding, applying a makeshift pressure dressing with sterile gauze may be necessary. You can also use an item of clothing or a belt to help contain the blood flow.
Clean the Wound
Cleaning the wound is essential in treating a cut. It is crucial to start by washing your hands with soap and water to limit exposure to bacteria.
A clean cloth or towel soaked in warm water should be used to gently wipe away any debris from the cut. For deeper wounds, a saline solution may be used to flush out any embedded debris but should not be applied to open wounds.
Afterward, rubbing alcohol can be used to cleanse the wound and help reduce potential infection. Gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth, then apply a bandage or gauze to the injury. If an infection is suspected, such as an animal or human bite, wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical care immediately.
Applied Medication and Petroleum Jelly
Medications such as antibiotic ointment reduce the risk of infection and speed up the healing of minor cuts. Petroleum jelly should also be applied to minor cuts to provide a barrier between the cut and potential irritants, dirt, and germs.
Make sure to clean the wound and gently pat it dry. Apply a thin layer of ointment or petroleum jelly and reapply while changing the bandage.
Dressing the Wound
After cleaning the cut, a sterile dressing or bandage should be applied, such as gauze, adhesive bandages, or butterfly wound closures. Be sure to cover the entirety of the wound to prevent an infection.
The dressing should be changed regularly to ensure it is clean and debris-free. To finish, some tape may be used to keep the dressing in place. Monitoring the wound to ensure it is healing correctly is also essential.
When to See a Doctor?
The need to see a doctor for a cut depends on its severity. If the wound is deep, wide, or bleeding for an extended period, seek medical attention. You can also visit website like this to have yourself certified in first aid. Additionally, if the wound shows signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, warmth, discharge, or a foul odor, immediately seek medical attention from a doctor.
Learn First Aid for Cuts
Overall, you should always be prepared for emergency wound care and know how to treat minor cuts and bleeding. Always keep a well-stocked first aid kit ready and replace any used or expired medical supplies.
Don’t forget to refer to a healthcare professional if the cuts are severe or require additional help! Start protecting yourself and your family today by learning the basics of first aid for cuts.
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