What first aid for minor cuts?

Answer 1

There is controversy over the use of topical antiseptics in the treatment of minor cuts. It is known that common antiseptics (hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol) cause additional cell death and therefore may increase wound healing time. Never apply such antiseptics to a deep or gushing wound.

Soap and water is ideal for cleaning a minor wound, and a more benign antiseptic such as benzalkonium chloride is often preferable to rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Additionally, dressing the wound with double or triple antibiotic ointment may help to prevent infection. Consider the use of a triple antibiotic, as some people have an allergy to neomycin, which is often the additional active ingredient in these ointments.

If treatment is delayed, such as in a wilderness setting, debridement (removal of dirt and particles) may be necessary. Since this is very uncomfortable, it is generally only performed in a setting where infection is a risk due to the increased length of time until treatment is available.

The American Heart Association's First Aid curriculum addresses minor cuts only in the category of bleeding. The protocol is:

-Wear gloves

-Apply gauze

-Apply pressure

-Apply more gauze if needed to control the bleeding.

-Never remove gauze directly from the wound, as this may increase bleeding

If a cut is severe enough to require bleeding control, do not focus on cleaning the wound since it will need to be cleaned thoroughly prior to receiving stitches or wound dressing. Seek additional training in bleeding control for more severe cuts.