Treating Cuts or Lacerations at Home
- Apply direct pressure with gauze and elevate to stop the bleeding.
- Cleaning with a gentle soap and water will help reduce the chance of bacterial infection.
- Antibiotic ointment (such as bacitracin) and a sterile gauze bandage will help to protect the wound from further infection and water loss until a scab forms.
- If the wound is dirty go to your local FastMed for cleansing and possible suture repair.
Medical Treatment for Cuts and Lacerations
- Just as at home, the first step is to stop the bleeding from a cut or laceration.
- Medication to numb the area may be given.
- Cleaning is often the most important aspect of good wound care.
- Your medical provider will decide the best way to repair your wound.
- Some minor cuts can be closed with special adhesive tapes (Steri-Strips) or tissue glue (Dermabond).
- Deeper cuts may need stitches to repair deep structures.
- Stitches to the skin surface can help to stop bleeding, protect underlying tissues, and lessen scarring.
- If the wound is contaminated tetanus immunization will be given if it has been more than 5 years since your last immunization. Normally, the tetanus immunization is given every 10 years.
If you are uncomfortable treating a cut or laceration at home, visit a local urgent care clinic today.
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.