|
|
Cuts and Puncture Wounds
Alternate Names : Laceration, Open Wound, Wound - Cut or Puncture
 See all Pictures & Images
Cuts and Puncture Wounds: First Aid
If the wound is bleeding severely, call your local emergency number (such as 911).
Minor cuts and puncture wounds can be treated at home. Take the following steps.
FOR MINOR CUTS
-
Wash your hands with soap to avoid infection.
-
Wash the cut thoroughly with mild soap and water.
-
Use direct pressure to stop the bleeding.
-
Apply an antibacterial ointment.
-
If the cut is likely to get dirty or be re-opened by friction, cover it (once the bleeding has stopped) with a bandage that will not stick to the injury.
FOR MINOR PUNCTURES
-
Wash your hands.
-
Use a stream of water, for at least five minutes, to rinse the puncture wound and wash with soap.
-
Look (but DO NOT probe) for objects inside the wound. If found, DO NOT remove -- go to the emergency room. If you cannot see anything inside the wound, but a piece of the object that caused the injury is missing, also seek medical attention.
-
Apply antibacterial ointment and a clean bandage.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Cuts and Puncture Wounds: Symptoms & Signs
• Cuts and Puncture Wounds: Prevention
• Cuts and Puncture Wounds: First Aid
• Cuts and Puncture Wounds: Do Not
• Call Immediately for Emergency Medical Assistance if
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Other Topics
• Bleeding
• Immunizations - General Overview
• Tetanus - Vaccine
Review Date : 8/11/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Boaz Rosenblat, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (11/18/2001).
|
|
