Wound Dressings
Buy wound dressings, gauze, medical tape, and other wound care products to help injured skin heal. Proper wound care can prevent infections and minimize a scar.
First, assess the severity of the wound. Small wounds with little bleeding can be taken care of at home. However, if it's a significant cut that may need stitches, or a wound that has uncontrollable bleeding or a lot of pain at the wound site, you should see an urgent care doctor immediately.
For small wound care at home, always wash your hands before caring for a wound. Medical gloves are available to prevent contamination. Stop the bleeding from the wound by using a clean cloth or bandage when applying pressure to the wound. After the bleeding stops, clean the wound and dry it with a clean cloth. Apply antibiotic ointment to the wound to help prevent the growth of bacteria that may lead to an infection. Use sterile dressing to cover the wound to protect it from outside elements as it heals. For minor wounds, simple bandages and nonsterile dressing will do. However, for moderate-sized wounds, be sure to cover with sterile dressing and tape. Make sure the dressing fits well over the wound so it isn't so loose that it falls off, but also not so tight that it cuts off circulation of blood to the area.
See a medical professional for moderate to large sized cuts or scrapes. Urgent care clinics can provide immediate treatment for your wound.