A cut with a sharp knife or a shard of glass is a typical occurrence. They frequently occur while people are cooking, dishwashing, or even creating. All it takes is a slip of the knife or a dish to break, and there's blood everywhere. While these types of cuts are frightening, the majority of them can be safely treated at home.
To treat a minor cut, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Wash the cut to prevent infection. Use cool or lukewarm water and a mild soap or cleanser to gently remove dirt or debris.
3. Stop the bleeding. Apply pressure to the cut using a clean washcloth or gauze. Maintain pressure for one to two minutes or until the bleeding stops.
4. Apply petroleum jelly. This will help keep the wound moist for faster healing. Make sure you apply it continuously until the cut heals. To help prevent the spread of dirt and bacteria, consider using petroleum jelly from a tube instead of a jar. Do not apply topical antibiotics.
5. Cover the cut with a sterile bandage. This will help protect the cut and prevent it from reopening. Change the bandage daily, and keep the cut covered until it heals.
6. Consider taking over-the-counter pain medication. Acetaminophen can help relieve painful cuts.
7. Make sure your tetanus vaccination is up to date if your cut is from a dirty or rusty object. If you aren’t sure, contact your primary care doctor.
Minor cuts usually heal in one week or less; but, if your cut is longer than three-quarters of an inch, deeper than a quarter inch, or won't stop bleeding, seek medical help right away.