Cuts, Scratches, Abrasions and Wounds

Minor cuts, scratches and abrasions do not usually need medical attention. Abrasions such as gravel rash may have dirt embedded in them and are likely to become infected. Larger skin cuts with gaping edges usually need stitches to hold the edges together so that they heal more quickly and with a neater scar.

Stab or penetrating wounds caused by sharp objects (such as knives, scissors, stakes, nails and bullets) generally need medical treatment. Although the surface cut may be small, such objects can penetrate deeply and harm internal organs. They may also carry dirt and infection deep inside.

Cuts, scratches and abrasions

First aid treatment

1. Wash your hands well before treating the injury.
2. Gently brush away any surface foreign matter, such as gravel.
3. Control BLEEDING if necessary.
4. Clean the wound and the area surrounding it,wiping away from the wound; use sterile swabs if they are available, warm water (preferably boiled) and antiseptic solution(according to the instructions on the label). Pat dry the skin around the wound.
5. Apply a sterile, non-adherent dressing.
6. If the wound is gaping, consult a doctor without delay in case stitches are needed.

A tetanus booster may also be needed.

Stab wounds

First aid treatment

1. Stop any bleeding by applying direct pressure.
2. Remove or cut away clothing around the wound.
3. when bleeding is controlled, carefully clean the wound and apply a sterile dressing, as above.
4. seek medical aid.

Wounds with on embedded object

First aid treatment

1. Do not attempt to remove the object. Cover the wound with a clean dressing. Apply a ring pad around the wound and bandage lightly.
2. Apply pressure around the object to stop bleeding, but not over it.
3. Seek medical aid urgently.

Severed body parts

It may be possible to save a severed part (such as an ear, the nose or portion of a limb) if you act quickly. But your priority is to save the casualty's life.

Warning

Do not attempt to bandage a severed part in position. This causes further distress and pain to the casualty and could damage delicate tissues, hampering subsequent microsurgery.

First aid treatment

1. Lay the casualty down, with the injured part supported in a raised position.
2. Cover the stump or raw area with a large piece of gauze or clean cloth, and press firmly against it to stop bleeding. You may need to add a soft, bulky pad. Bandage the dressing and pad in place.
3. Seek urgent medical aid.
4. Encourage the casualty to keep as still as possible. Watch closely for signs of SHOCK.
5. Find the severed part and place it in a watertight container, such as an inflated and sealed plastic bag. Do not wash the part first. Put the bag into a container of chilled water with a few ice cubes added, and send it to hospital with the casualty.