How to treat minor wounds in children

The difference between a superficial wound and a deep wound

It is important to note that deep wounds require special medical care. The doctor usually stitches the wound after sterilizing it well. In some cases, the patient is given a dose of tetanus vaccination to avoid any complications resulting from wound contamination. A deep wound is characterized by penetrating the outer layers of the skin, reaching the fatty tissue and sometimes the bone, so if the fat or bone is protruding from the wound or there is a sharp object stuck, wrap the wound with a clean bandage to control the bleeding and go immediately to the emergency room so that your child can receive the necessary medical care and to avoid any future complications.

A minor wound or scratch occurs due to penetration of the primary layers of the skin; usually, the bleeding due to these wounds is not severe, and they can be controlled and sterilized at home, and a visit to the hospital can be postponed except in the following cases:

• Bleeding that does not stop.
• The child develops a fever.
• Additional symptoms such as loss of consciousness or vomiting.
• If the wound is on the face or head.
• If the scratch is in the eye, ear, nose, or mouth.
• Pus is coming out of the wound.
• There is an object stuck in the wound.
• If a dog bite or any other animal causes the wound.

First aid supplies for treating minor wounds

There should be a first aid kit in every home, and it should contain these supplies for treating wounds:

• Latex gloves.
• Sterilizer.
• Sterile ointment.
• Anti-microbial ointment.
• Gauze.
• Adhesive tapes for wounds.
• Scissors.
• Medical bandages in different sizes.

Treating minor wounds in children at home

1| Cleaning the wound

The first step in treating cuts or scrapes is to clean the wound by following simple steps. Start by washing your hands well; if latex gloves are available, wearing them when cleaning and treating the wound is preferable. Then, wash the wound with lukewarm water and remove any dirt and debris surrounding the wound that may cause inflammation if left. Then, wash the wound with regular soap, as there is no need to use a sterile substance, as some of these substances may cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

2| Stop the bleeding

Cover the wound with sterile gauze or a clean towel and apply pressure to the wound with the palm of your hand. Add more layers of gauze as needed and continue applying pressure for a few minutes until the bleeding stops. Elevating the affected area, such as the hand or leg, on a comfortable surface, such as a pillow, is also recommended.

3| Treat the wound

Apply a sterile ointment to the wound or scratch. If the area is small and there is no risk of getting dirty, you can leave the wound exposed; air helps minor wounds and scratches heal faster. However, if the wound gets messy, in the case of foot and hand wounds, it is preferable to wrap the wound with a sterile bandage during the day and uncover it at night so that it dries faster. Monitor the wound in case any sign of redness or pus appears.

To sum up,

Minor cuts and scrapes are a part of childhood. One mother said, "I didn't see the true color of my son's knees until he graduated from high school. They were always covered in cuts and scrapes from playing and falling." So don't be afraid, and don't feel like you're a terrible mom. It is essential to remain calm when your child is injured, to be prepared by mastering the basics of first aid, and to take him to the emergency room if the wound is deep and requires medical intervention.