What are Cuts, Scrapes, or Bruises (Skin Injury)?

DEFINITION

1)Cuts, lacerations, gashes and tears (Wounds that go through the skin (dermis) to the fat or muscle tissue)

2)Scrapes, abrasions, scratches and floor burns (Superficial wounds that do not go all the way through the skin)

3)Bruises (bleeding into the skin) without an overlying cut or scrape

When Sutures (stitches) are needed:

1)Any cut that is split open or gaping needs sutures.

2)Cuts longer than a half inch (12 mm) usually need sutures.

3)On the face, cuts longer than a quarter inch (6 mm) usually need closure with sutures or skin glue.

Any open wound that may need sutures should be checked and closed as soon as possible (ideally, within 6 hours). There is no cutoff, however, for treating open wounds to prevent wound infections.

Cuts Versus Scratches: Helping You Decide

The skin (dermis) is 2 mm (about one-eighth inch) thick.

A cut (laceration) goes through it.

A scratch or scrape (wide scratch) does not go through it.

Cuts that gape open at rest or with movement need closure to prevent scarring.

Scrapes and scratches never need closure, no matter how long they are.

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR MINOR CUTS, SCRAPES OR BRUISES

Apply direct pressure for 10 minutes to stop any bleeding.

Wash the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes. (Caution: never soak a wound that might need sutures, because it may become more swollen and difficult to close.)

Gently scrub out any dirt with a washcloth.

Cut off any pieces of loose skin using a fine scissors (cleaned with rubbing alcohol).

Apply an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin (no prescription needed). Then, cover it with a Band-Aid or dressing. Change daily.

Liquid Skin Bandage for Minor Cuts and Scrapes:

Liquid skin bandage is a new product that seals wounds with a plastic coating that lasts up to 1 week.

Liquid skin bandage has several benefits when compared to a regular bandage (e.g., a dressing or a Band-Aid). Liquid Bandage only needs to be applied once to minor cuts and scrapes. It helps stop minor bleeding. It seals the wound and may promote faster healing and lower infection rates. However, it is also more expensive.

After the wound is washed and dried, the liquid is applied by spray or with a swab. It dries in less than a minute. It's resistant to bathing.

Bruises:

Apply a cold pack or ice bag wrapped in a wet cloth to the bruise once for 20 minutes to stop the bleeding.

After 48 hours apply a warm wet wash cloth for 10 minutes 3 times per day to help reabsorb the blood.


Pain Medicine:

Give acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen as needed for pain relief.

Adopted From lpch.org