How to treat cuts and grazes

Stop the bleeding

Stopany bleeding before applying a dressing to the wound. Apply pressure to the area using a clean and dry absorbent material such as a bandage, towel or handkerchief for several minutes.

If the cut is to your hand or arm, raise it above your head to help reduce the flow of blood.

If the injury is to a lower limb, lie down and raise the affected area above the level of your heart.

Clean the wound and apply a dressing

When the wound has stopped bleeding, clean it and cover it with a dressing to help stop it becoming infected.

To do this:

• wash and dry your hands thoroughly
• clean the wound underdrinking-qualityrunning tap water avoid using antisepticas it may damage the skin and slow healing
• pat the area dry with a clean towel
• apply a sterile adhesive dressing, such as a plasterread more about how to apply plasters and other dressings

Keep the dressing clean by changing it as often as necessary. Keep the wound dry by using waterproof dressings, which will allow you to take showers.

You can remove the dressing after a few days, once the wound has closed itself.

Take painkillers if needed

Ifthewoundis painful for the first few days, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen .