By Jeannie Batson
Children often receive minor cuts or abrasions during sports activities or while playing. Many of these minor cuts or abrasions can be safely treated at home. First you should assess the seriousness of the wound. If in doubt always seek medical help. If you determine the cut or abrasion is minor and can be safely treated at home here are some guidelines to care for the wound.
1. Wash your hands well with soap and water if possible.
2. Cleanse the cut or abrasion using a gentle soap and cool or warm water.
3. Do not use hydrogen peroxide to cleanse the cut or abrasionbecause this can actually cause more irritation to the skin.
4. It is very important to remove any dirt and debris from the wound. Moderate pressure (faucet half way open) may be needed to thoroughly cleanse the wound. The water sprayer from the kitchen sink also works really well.
5. You may need to gently scrub the wound if it is excessively dirty.
6. You may also apply an antibiotic cream or ointment like Polymixin B or Bacitracin to help prevent infection.
7. Covered wounds do heal faster so apply a bandage over the cut or abrasion.
8. Watch for signs of infection such as swelling, redness, or warmth around the wound, pus or discharge from the wound, and fever or chills. Seek medical attention if the wound is deep, has jagged edges, cuts over joints that open with movement, or if you’re worried about scarring.