Kid Tips - Lacerations and Abrasions (Cuts & Scrapes)

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Falls and accidents that can cause a cut or scrape are fairly common during the summer. It is best to prepare yourself by gathering basic first-aid supplies in a central location, where it will be handy when the need arises. See below for a suggest supply list.

First-aid care for cuts and abrasions is very straightforward. It consists primarily of cleansing the wound to prevent infection, applying an antibiotic ointment, and covering with a bandage.

The most important measure is to control bleeding. This should be done through the application of pressure directly to the wound. If bleeding is severe, or if moderate bleeding is not controlled by the application of pressure, you should contact your physician or the nearest hospital, as outlined below.
What to do if your child sustains a scrape or minor cut:

• Clean the wound thoroughly. This involves using plenty of soap and water. If the wound appears dirty, you may need to scrub gently until all foreign material is removed.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment.
• Cover the wound with a clean bandage.
• You may give acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help control discomfort.

First-Aid Kit

Although soap and water is by far the best measure to clean a wound, there may be times when you do not have this available. Therefore, it is advisable to assemble a first-aid kit to be used on picnics, family outings, ball games, etc. where soap and water might not be available. Such a first-aid kit might include:

• Antiseptic wipes or sprays
• Antibiotic ointment
• Various sizes of bandages
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort
• Your physician's address and phone number
• Change for a pay phone.

Contact your physician's office or the nearest hospital if:

• Your child has a deep cut requiring sutures
• Your child has bleeding that cannot be easily controlled through pressure
• You suspect a more serious injury than a cut or scrape
• You have any other questions.
  

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Note to health care professionals: You are free to use these materials for your patients, provided you include the following statement:

This patient education handout provided courtesy of the
University of Kansas Department of Pediatrics.
Copyright 2003-2006 KU Pediatrics. All rights reserved