Minor wounds are common and are not usually serious.
Minor wounds usually do not require a doctor's care. Most can be treated
at home with first aid.
A minor wound is a small wound or a wound on just the surface of the skin.
A minor wound might be a cut, scrape, or abrasion (like a child's skinned
knee).
Can I treat it at home or should I seek medical care?
A cut that goes beyond the top layer of skin may need stitches.
Call the doctor.
Wounds that will not stop bleeding may need stitches. Call the doctor.
Most other minor wounds can be treated at home with first aid.
How do I care for cuts, scrapes, and abrasions?
The most important step is to wash the wound with soap and warm water to
keep it clean. Pat dry.
Avoid putting alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine on the wound. This
may actually cause more damage.
Putting a first-aid ointment, such as Bacitracin, may help prevent infection.
Cover the wound with a bandage (such as a Band-Aid) to keep out dirt and
to prevent infection.
To help stop bleeding, raise the wounded area. For example, rest a leg on
a pillow if a cut to the shin won't stop bleeding.
Wash the wound with soap and water each day.
Replace the bandage each day.
What are signs of infection?
Signs of infection can include redness and swelling.
Other signs are pain or tenderness.
Any pus (cream or greenish fluid) draining from the wound could indicate
infection.
Red streaks on the skin near the wound could be a sign of infection. This
type of infection is more serious, especially if the child also has a fever.
See the doctor right away.
When should I call the doctor?
People who have illnesses that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes
or cancer should see a doctor if they are wounded. They are more likely to
get an infection.
If you think your child needs stitches, call the doctor right away.
Call the doctor immediately if your child has red streaks on his skin around
the wound, especially if he also has a fever.
Call the doctor if you think your child's wound is infected.
If there is risk of infection, call the doctor to see if your child has
had a tetanus shot within the last 5 years.
Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns.
Quick Answers
Minor wounds usually do not require a doctor's care. Most can be treated
at home with first aid.
Deep wounds or wounds that will not stop bleeding may need stitches.
The most important step is to wash the wound with soap and warm water to
keep it clean.
Signs of infection can include redness, swelling, pain, or tenderness.
Call the doctor if you think your child's wound is infected.
References
Arnot Ogden Medical Center. Self Care: Minor Wounds. 1998 (cited 2002 January
15). Available from: URL: http://www.aomc.org/HOD2/general/Perssafe-MINOR.html
Columbia University College of P and S Complete Home Medical Guide. Common
First-Aid Procedures. (cited 2002 January 15). Available from: URL: http://cpmcnet.columbia.edu/texts/guide/hmg14_0007.html#14.21
MedicineNet.com. First Aid: Cuts, Scrapes, and Puncture Wounds. 1996-2002
(cited 2002 January 15). Available from: URL: http://www.focusonskin.com/script/main/Art.asp?li=MNI&ArticleKey=220&page=2
"Virtual Pediatric Hospital", the Virtual Pediatric Hospital logo, and "A digital library of pediatric information" are all Trademarks of Donna M. D'Alessandro, M.D. and Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Virtual Pediatric Hospital is funded in whole by Donna M. D'Alessandro, M.D. and Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D. Advertising is not accepted.
Your personal information remains confidential and is not sold, leased, or given to any third party be they reliable or not.
The information contained in Virtual Pediatric Hospital is not a substitute for the medical care and advice of your physician. There may be variations in treatment that your physician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.