Whether you have kids or like to work in the kitchen, cuts and scrapes happen. Enacting proper wound care as soon as the injury occurs will prevent infection, reduce scarring, encourage healing, and minimize discomfort. Follow the steps below for information on tending to wounds.

What to Do After Getting a Cut

1. Stop the Bleeding

The first step of wound care is to press a dry, clean, soft cloth firmly over it to allow the blood to clot. Minor cuts should stop bleeding after five minutes, but if it’s deeper or longer, it can take as many as 15. If bleeding persists, or if the injured person is on blood-thinners or has a clotting disorder, you should call a physician for guidance or go to an urgent care center.

2. Clean It

Once the bleeding has stopped, gently rinse the wound out with warm water for several minutes, then wash the area around it with antibacterial soap. Remove debris and dirt from the wound with a damp cloth or tweezers to prevent infections and determine how severe the injury is. 

3. Cover Minor Cuts

If the cut is clean and stops bleeding, it’s safe to bandage. Apply antibiotic ointment over the cut and cover it with a bandage to keep out debris and bacteria. If it’s too large, you’ll need actual medical supplies, like gauze or a wound pad. Ensure the wound is covered completely and that the bandage is secured with medical tape so it will not come off.

4. Seek Help for Large Ones

If it is more than ¼ of an inch deep, stitches may be necessary to keep out germs and allow the skin to heal with minimal scarring. Wounds that are split open or don’t have straight edges may also need stitches. If this is the case — or you couldn’t remove all the debris from the wound — contact a physician or urgent care provider for an immediate appointment. If it’s still bleeding, you may need emergency treatment.

If you need wound care supplies, Bernens Medical & Pharmacy in Cincinnati, OH, has everything from bandages and gauze to antibiotic ointment and wound dressings, like DuoDERM®. Since 1963, their pharmacy has provided quality care and supplies for all needs, including diabetic supplies and sports accessories. View information about their medical supplies for wounds online and call (513) 471-7575 to speak with a pharmacy associate.