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Cuts and scrapes are a part of childhood.
In most cases, they're not serious
and can be treated at home.
If the wound is bleeding,
press sterile gauze
or a clean cloth firmly on it
until the bleeding stops.
Hold the area under cool,
gentle running water.
You can also use bottled water or saline wound spray.
Remove any debris by rubbing gently
with a clean cloth or use clean tweezers.
Don't apply any disinfecting solutions
to the wound.
They don't help and will only cause pain.
Use a bandage to cover the wound
until a scab has formed.
An antibiotic ointment will help keep the bandage
from sticking to the wound.
You can use a Steri-strip or butterfly bandage
to pull the edges of a superficial cut closer together.
Don't use ointments as they'll prevent
the bandage from sticking to the skin.
Change the dressing every day
or more often if it gets wet or dirty.
Once a cut or scrape has formed a scab,
you can leave it open to the air.
If the scrape is in an area
that is likely to get irritated
or dirty, keep it covered.
When your child cuts or scrapes themself,
hold the wounded area under cool water
and remove any debris with a cloth or tweezers.
Cover the wound with a bandage
and ointment until a scab has formed.
Change the dressing every day
or more often if it gets wet or dirty.
To learn more, visit www.aboutkidshealth.ca