Cuts and grazes
Most cuts and grazes can be safely looked after at home. The main steps are to stop the bleeding, clean the wound, and cover it to keep it clean while it heals. Watch for signs of infection over the next few days.
Looking after yourself
- Wash your hands before touching the wound
- Stop bleeding by pressing on the wound with a clean cloth for 10 minutes
- Rinse under cool running water to wash away dirt
- Pat dry with a clean cloth and cover with a plaster or sterile dressing
- Change the dressing daily and keep it dry until healed
When to get medical help
Use NHS 111 online, call 111, or contact your GP if:
- Bleeding does not stop with 10 minutes of firm pressure
- The cut is deep, on the face, or the edges are gaping open
- There is something stuck in the wound
- The wound is caused by an animal or human bite, or by something rusty or dirty
- You have not had a tetanus booster in the last ten years (or five for a dirty wound)
- The wound is not healing, or shows redness, swelling, pus or increasing pain
Call 999 or go to A&E if bleeding is severe and does not stop, the wound is very deep, or the person is showing signs of shock (pale, cold, fast pulse, faint).
Further information
This page provides general information only. It is not a diagnosis and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.