Many cuts and grazes are minor and can be easily treated at home. Cleaning the wound and covering it with a plaster is usually all that's needed.
Important
Wash your hands before touching the cut or graze to prevent infection. Minor wounds should start to heal within a few days.
How to clean and cover the wound
If your child has a minor cut:
- Wash your hands. Use disposable gloves if you have them to reduce the risk of infection.
- Clean the cut with cool running water.
- Check the wound to make sure there's nothing stuck in it. For example, a piece of glass or gravel.
- If there is no object in the wound, cover the cut with a clean non-fluffy dressing. Use a sterile adhesive dressing or a plaster.
Removing an object in the wound
If there is an object stuck in the wound (such as a piece of glass), do not forcibly remove it. Press firmly either side of it to push the edges of the wound together.
Urgent advice: Contact a GP, GP out of hours, emergency department or injury unit if:
- you cannot remove the object or you think that there is a risk of infection
Stop the bleeding
If there's a lot of bleeding, apply light pressure to the area for several minutes using a clean cloth or pad. You can use a bandage, towel or handkerchief. If you do not have one, use your fingers. Make sure your fingers are clean.
If possible, raise the injured limb (arm or leg). This will help to stop the bleeding. Do not do this if you think the limb might be broken.
If blood soaks through the pad or dressing, leave it there and put another pad or dressing over the top. Hold it there with increased pressure.
Emergency action required: Call 112 or 999 or go to your nearest emergency department (ED) or injury unit if:
- you cannot stop the bleeding
- there's bleeding from an artery
Blood from an artery comes out in spurts with each beat of the heart. It is bright red and is usually hard to control.
Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are not usually a sign of anything serious. They're common, particularly in children. Most can be easily treated at home.
You should see your GP if your child is under age 2 and has a nosebleed.
If your child has a nosebleed, they should:
- Sit down.
- Lean forward.
- Pinch the soft part of their nose just above their nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Breathe through their mouth.
After 10 to 15 minutes, check to see if their nose is still bleeding. Go to your GP or nearest emergency department (ED) if the nosebleed has not stopped.