How to treat minor cuts Wounds from a sharp knife or piece of glass are very common. Fortunately, most of them can be treated safely at home with a few simple steps. To treat minor cuts, follow these tips from board-certified dermatologists of the American Academy of Dermatology.
How to treat minor cuts from a knife and glass
Cuts from a sharp knife or piece of glass are very common.
It often occurs while people are preparing food and holding a knife to cut something, or from cleaning broken dishes and glass resulting from washing and cleaning, or even manufacturing anything at home, we are exposed and often previously exposed to wounds.
However, while these types of wounds are amazing, most can be treated safely at home.
To treat a minor wound, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water
Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water before touching the wound to kill germs and microbes.
2. Wash the wound to prevent infection
Use cold or lukewarm water to wash the wound.
3. Stop the bleeding
Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or gauze. Continue applying pressure for 1 to 2 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
4. Putting an ointment against bacteria and germs and an antiseptic betadine.
This will help keep the wound moist and heal faster. Make sure to apply it frequently until the wound heals.
To help prevent the spread of dirt and bacteria, consider using the ointment from the tube rather than the jar. Do not use topical antibiotics.
5.Cover the wound with a sterile dressing
This will help protect the wound and prevent it from reopening. Change the dressing daily and keep the wound covered until it heals.
6. Take pain relievers
If the wound is painful, consider taking an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever. Acetaminophen can help relieve painful wounds.
7. Tetanus injection
Make sure your tetanus vaccine is up to date if the wound was from a dirty or rusty object. If you are not sure, contact a dermatologist.
8. Clean the place where the blood falls well
Clean with a gentle soap or detergent to gently remove dirt and debris, and beware of reinfection.
Summary
Most minor cuts heal within a week or less. However, if the wound is longer, deeper, more than a quarter of an inch deep, or the bleeding does not stop, seek immediate medical attention.
When the wound heals, if you notice any signs of infection, such as pus, increased redness, swelling, or pain, see your primary care doctor or dermatologist.
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