Abrasions, Cuts, and Lacerations

Cuts, lacerations and abrasions are common injuries that can occur in daily life. Proper treatment is important to prevent infection and promote healing.

Treatment

The first step in treating a cut or abrasion is to clean the affected area with soap and water. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be present and reduce the risk of infection.

After cleaning the wound, apply pressure using a clean cloth or bandage to stop any bleeding. If the bleeding does not stop after 10-15 minutes of pressure, seek medical attention.

Once the bleeding has stopped, apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound to help prevent infection. Cover the wound with a sterile bandage to keep it clean and dry. Change the bandage daily or if it becomes wet or dirty.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If the wound is deep, large, or on the face, seek medical attention. Tetanus shots may also be necessary if the wound is caused by a dirty object or if it has been more than five years since the last shot.

Most minor cuts and abrasions don’t require a doctor’s visit, but visit our clinic if:

• The wound is on your face
• The edges of the cut are jagged or gape open, the cut is deep (1/4 inch or more), or you can see fat or muscle. These are signs that you may need stitches
• You can’t get all of the dirt or debris out of the wound, or the wound was caused by something very dirty or rusty
• You have a puncture wound or a cut and haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past 5 years
• The wound is from an animal or human bite
• The injured area feels numb

Signs of Infection

If the wound isn’t healing or you notice any of these signs of infection, visit our clinic right away:

• Redness, swelling, and warmth
• Increasing pain
• Pus or drainage from the cut
• Fever
• Red streaks around the wound

Physicians Urgent Care is here to help care for your cuts and abrasions. With walk-in appointments available and online reservations, we can get you in and out in no time.