Cuts, Lacerations, Abrasions, & Bruises

Cuts. A cut is a type of incised wound, usually on the skin that is caused by a clean, sharp objects such as knives and shards of glass. Sharp objects may slice into the skin causing bleeding. The severity of the cut depends on the size, the depth and the structures (blood vessels, tendons, muscles, nerves) damaged by the injury.

When one sustains a cut, the wound should be cleaned immediately with soap and water. If there is bleeding, apply pressure directly on the wound using a clean cloth or a gauze. Cover the wound with a sterile dressing and raise the injured part above the heart if possible. A consult to an emergency room is necessary for assessment and treatment of the wound and for anti-tetanus shots or other medications necessary. Deep and large cuts may need to be sutured or stitched.

Lacerations. A laceration is a wound with irregular edges which is usually caused by blunt trauma. The wound may appear like an irregular tear on the skin and is usually a dirty wound. Treatment is the same as cuts; clean the wound, control bleeding and see a doctor if you need an anti-tetanus booster or if the wound needs closing with sutures. If the wound is dirty, a course of antibiotics may be needed. Analgesics may be taken for the pain.

Abrasions. An abrasion is a scrape or a rubbing away of a superficial surface of the skin due to friction. Abrasions are usually caused by trauma, such as a skinned knee or elbow. The epidermis is usually scraped off and the scraped skin may contain dirt particles.

Abrasions should be cleaned thoroughly which includes removing any foreign particles embedded on the surface that may cause infection if left on the skin. Remove the particles gently under flowing water, do not rub because this may cause additional trauma to the skin. Apply an antiseptic and cover with a sterile gauze. Daily wound care and dressing should be done to hasten wound healing.

Bruises. A bruise or a contusion is a manifestation of superficial bleeding or hematoma into the skin tissues. It is usually caused by blunt trauma which may damage the underlying blood vessels causing blood to flow into the extracellular space. Small bruises on the skin are not dangerous and heal eventually.

First Aid for Cuts