Virtual Children's Hospital: CQQA: Minor Wounds

Pediatrics Common Questions, Quick Answers

How to Care for Minor Wounds: Cuts, Scrapes, and Abrasions

Donna D'Alessandro, M.D.
Lindsay Huth, B.A.
Peer Review Status: Internally Reviewed
Creation Date: February 2002
Last Revision Date: April 2002

Common Questions, Quick Answers

What is a minor wound?

Minor wounds are common and are not usually serious.
Minor wounds usually do not require a doctor's care. Most can be treated at home with first aid.
A minor wound is a small wound or a wound on just the surface of the skin.
A minor wound might be a cut, scrape, or abrasion (like a child's skinned knee).

Can I treat it at home or should I seek medical care?

A cut that goes beyond the top layer of skin may need stitches. Call the doctor.
Wounds that will not stop bleeding may need stitches. Call the doctor.
Most other minor wounds can be treated at home with first aid.

How do I care for cuts, scrapes, and abrasions?

The most important step is to wash the wound with soap and warm water to keep it clean. Pat dry.
Avoid putting alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine on the wound. This may actually cause more damage.
Putting a first-aid ointment, such as Bacitracin, may help prevent infection.
Cover the wound with a bandage (such as a Band-Aid) to keep out dirt and to prevent infection.
To help stop bleeding, raise the wounded area. For example, rest a leg on a pillow if a cut to the shin won't stop bleeding.
Wash the wound with soap and water each day.
Replace the bandage each day.

What are signs of infection?

Signs of infection can include redness and swelling.
Other signs are pain or tenderness.
Any pus (cream or greenish fluid) draining from the wound could indicate infection.
Red streaks on the skin near the wound could be a sign of infection. This type of infection is more serious, especially if the child also has a fever. See the doctor right away.

When should I call the doctor?

People who have illnesses that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes or cancer should see a doctor if they are wounded. They are more likely to get an infection.
If you think your child needs stitches, call the doctor right away.
Call the doctor immediately if your child has red streaks on his skin around the wound, especially if he also has a fever.
Call the doctor if you think your child's wound is infected.
If there is risk of infection, call the doctor to see if your child has had a tetanus shot within the last 5 years.
Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Quick Answers

Minor wounds usually do not require a doctor's care. Most can be treated at home with first aid.
Deep wounds or wounds that will not stop bleeding may need stitches.
The most important step is to wash the wound with soap and warm water to keep it clean.
Signs of infection can include redness, swelling, pain, or tenderness.
Call the doctor if you think your child's wound is infected.

References

Arnot Ogden Medical Center. Self Care: Minor Wounds. 1998 (cited 2002 January 15). Available from: URL: http://www.aomc.org/HOD2/general/Perssafe-MINOR.html
Columbia University College of P and S Complete Home Medical Guide. Common First-Aid Procedures. (cited 2002 January 15). Available from: URL: http://cpmcnet.columbia.edu/texts/guide/hmg14_0007.html#14.21
MedicineNet.com. First Aid: Cuts, Scrapes, and Puncture Wounds. 1996-2002 (cited 2002 January 15). Available from: URL: http://www.focusonskin.com/script/main/Art.asp?li=MNI&ArticleKey=220&page=2

http://www.vh.org/pediatric/patient/pediatrics/cqqa/minorwounds.html