Cuts, grazes, scrapes, are skin splits caused by a collision of some kind that causes the skin to split. These types of injuries are common in children and can occur during almost every type of today’s activities. Cuts, grazes, lacerations, and other wounds (such as punctures) can occur almost anywhere on the body. There could be a lot of bleeding depending on the size of the wound as well as the area in which the wound is located. Some areas bleed more than others.
Every wound needs first-aid.
First, stop the bleeding. If clean rubber gloves or hand sanitizer are available, use them before treating the wound. Clean, dry towel directly on wound. If you're at home, a tea towel is perfect; if you're out, a scarf will do. If a limb is injured, lift it above the heart and apply pressure to halt blood flow. 5-minute pressure. Thorough cleaning decreases infection risk. Other drugs may aggravate the wound or impede its healing. Antiseptic creams don't help wounds heal.
All wounds require first-aid treatment. The most important thing is to attempt to stop the bleeding. If rubber gloves are available they should be your first choice, if they are not please make sure your hands are as clean as possible before treating the wound but do not delay treating the wound if sanitation is not an option. Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean, dry cloth. If you're at home, a dish towel is ideal, but if you're out and about, any piece of clothing will work. Try to use the most sterile piece of clothing possible.
Bruisers
Apply pressure to stop bleeding, as with minor wounds. In these instances, take your child seek medial attention if:
- The bleeding is uncontrolled, it’s a deep wound, or a puncture wound
- Deep, joint-spanning laceration, like on a knee, wrist or knuckle
- Bite created the wound.
- Unable to clean.
Your child's wound is gaping because he hasn't been vaccinated in five years. Glue or stitches may be needed. See a doctor within 24 hours after cleaning and covering the wound. In the following instance, seek immediate emergency professional medical attention. If there's bleeding. This may signify an arterial blockage. Keep wounds compressed. If glass or a stick protrude from the wound. No removal attempts. Apply pressure on the wound. If you're alone with your child, contact an ambulance rather than drive to the hospital while applying pressure.
As a follow up change damp or filthy wound dressings. Remove the bandage or dressing to facilitate healing. Watch for infection while the wound heals. Take your child to the doctor if the wound isn't healing or if you detect redness, pain, leaking, warmth, or swelling. If the wound gets infected, it may stink and your child may get sick.
Remember -
- Pressure stops bleeding.
- Wash and treat the wound.
- Seek medical attention if you can't stop the bleeding, if something is protruding from the cut, or if blood is spurting.
- Always watch for signed of infection.