How to Treat a Child's Cut, Scrape, or Bruise
Children are so active that there's always a chance they will get cuts, scrapes and bruises. Stay calm and follow these tips to get your child back on their feet.
Instructions
- Step 1: Apply cold pack Apply a cold pack to a bruise for 20 minutes to stop internal bleeding.
- Step 2: Elevate the area Elevate the bruised area for 15 minutes. Contact a doctor after 24 hours if the bruise does not get better.
- TIP: Seek medical attention if the bruised area becomes swollen.
- Step 3: Apply pressure Apply direct pressure to cuts and scrapes for 10 minutes to stop the bleeding.
- Step 4: Clean the wound Clean the wound with soap and water.
- Step 5: Use a washcloth to gently scrub away dirt.
- TIP: Cut off loose pieces of skin with sterilized scissors.
- Step 6: Apply antibacterial cream or spray to prevent infection.
- Step 7: Cover the wound with a band-aid or sterile gauze. Contact your doctor if the cut or scrape looks infected, or does not heal within 10 days.
- FACT: blood vessels under the skin rupture.
You Will Need
- Cold pack
- Doctor
- Soap
- Water
- Washcloth
- Antibacterial cream/spray
- Band-Aids or gauze
- Sterile gauze
- Scissors (optional)