Take the following steps for minor cuts.
1. Stop the Bleeding
- Apply direct pressure on the area.
2. Clean and Protect
- Clean the area with warm water and gentle soap.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment to reduce chance of infection.
- Put a sterile bandage on the area. In some people, antibiotic ointments may cause a rash. If this happens, stop using the ointment.
3. Call a Health Care Provider
Call a health care provider if:
- The cut is deep or over a joint
- You cannot get the cut or laceration clean
- The injury is a deep puncture wound or the person has not had a recent (within the last 5 to 10 years) tetanus shot or booster
- The cut is from a human or animal bite
4. Follow Up
- For a minor cut or laceration, remove bandage after a couple of days to promote healing.
- See a health care provider if the cut doesn’t heal or shows signs of infection, including redness, swelling, pus, or excessive pain.