Introduction
When a person receives a cut or graze, they are going to find that this is not immediately a danger to their health. These are usually minor and are able to be treated at home. All that is needed is to clean the wound thoroughly and then cover with the right dressing. If there is a large amount of bleeding, place pressure on the wound until the bleeding stops.
Stop the Bleeding
If you have a cut or graze that is bleeding heavily or you are someone who bleeds heavily, you will want to stop the bleeding as soon as possible. You can apply pressure to the area, try to elevate the cut above your head, and then let the bleeding slow. As it slows, it will clot and stop.
The Dressing
Once the bleeding has stopped, you are going to want to dress the wound. Follow these steps:
- Wash and dry your hands
- Clean the wound under tap water; just use water, do not use any antiseptic as this can slow the healing of the wound.
- Pat the cut or graze with a clean towel
- Apply the dressing
- Change this dressing when needed, and consider using a waterproof dressing for when taking a shower
When to Seek Medical Help
There are times in which a person should seek medical help for the cut or graze that they have. They are going to find that when this becomes infected, they may need a doctor. You are at a higher risk of the cut or graze becoming infected if:
- The cut or graze was contaminated with bodily fluids, pus or soil
- There was something in the wound before it was cleaned
- There is a jagged edge to the wound
You should also seek medical help if the cut or graze is the result of an animal bite. These types of grazes or cuts are more likely to become infected.
Signs of infection include:
- The area begins to swell and becomes inflamed
- Pus or a discharge seeps from the cut or graze
- Redness is spreading from the cut
- There is pain that surrounds the cut or graze
- You feel unwell
- Start running a fever
- Your glands are swollen
In any of the below situations you need to seek immediate medical attention:
- You are bleeding from an artery
- The bleeding cannot be stopped
- There is loss of sensation in the area in which you have the cut or graze