Cuts and Scrapes

Types

Cuts, lacerations, gashes and tears. These are wounds that go through the skin to the fat tissue.
Scrapes, abrasions, scratches and floor burns. These are surface wounds that scrape off the top layer of skin. They don't go all the way through the skin. Scrapes are common on the knees, elbows and palms.

Symptoms

When Sutures (stitches) are Needed for Cuts

Any cut that is split open or gaping needs sutures.
Cuts longer than ½ inch (12 mm) usually need sutures.
On the face, cuts longer than ¼ inch (6 mm) usually need to be seen. They usually need closure with sutures or skin glue.
Any open wound that may need sutures should be seen as soon as possible. Ideally, they should be checked and closed within 6 hours. Reason: To prevent wound infections. There is no cutoff, however, for treating open wounds.

Cuts Versus Scratches: Helping You Decide

Prevention

Cuts, Scratches and Scrapes:

Use direct pressure to stop any bleeding. Do this for 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
Wash the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes. Try to rinse the cut under running water.
Caution: Never soak a wound that might need sutures. Reason: It may become more swollen and harder to close.
Gently wash out any dirt with a washcloth.

Antibiotic Ointment:

Liquid Skin Bandage for Minor Cuts and Scrapes:

Liquid skin bandage seals wounds with a plastic coating. It lasts up to 1 week.
Use for any small break in the skin. Examples are paper cuts, hangnails, and cracks on the fingers or toes.
Liquid skin bandage has several benefits compared to other bandages (such as Band-Aid). Liquid bandage only needs to be put on once. It seals the wound and may promote faster healing and lower infection rates. Also, it's water-proof, so you can bathe or shower.
Wash and dry the wound first. Then, put on the liquid. It comes with a small brush. It dries in less than a minute.
You can get this product at a drugstore near you. There are many brands of liquid bandage. No prescription is needed. The store brand of this product costs less than 5 dollars.

Pain Medicine:

To help with the pain, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Use as needed.

Tetanus Shot:

A tetanus shot update may be needed for cuts and other open wounds.
Check your vaccine records to see when your child got the last one.
For Dirty Cuts and Scrapes. If last tetanus shot was given over 5 years ago, need a booster.
For Clean Cuts. If last tetanus shot was given over 10 years ago, need a booster.
See your child's doctor for a booster during regular office hours. It's safe to give it within 3 days or less.

What to Expect:

Definition