Cuts & lacerations

1. 1

   Apply direct, firm pressure

   Press firmly with a clean cloth, gauze, or folded fabric for a full 5 to 10 minutes without lifting to check. Steady, continuous pressure builds the clot.

   Important: If blood soaks through, layer more cloth on top. Removing what's there breaks the forming clot and restarts the process.
2. 2

   Elevate while pressing

   Raise the injured area above heart level while keeping pressure on it. Even 6 to 12 inches of elevation slows blood flow to the wound significantly.

3. 3

   Clean thoroughly once bleeding stops

   Rinse under cool clean running water for 1 to 2 minutes. Use mild soap gently around — not inside — the wound. Remove visible debris with clean tweezers.

   Tip: Plain water and soap is better than hydrogen peroxide or iodine, both of which damage tissue and slow healing.
4. 4

   Apply antibiotic ointment and cover

   A thin layer of antibiotic ointment prevents infection and keeps the wound moist — moist wounds heal faster and scar less. Cover with an adhesive bandage or sterile dressing.

5. 5

   Watch for infection over 3 to 5 days

   Signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, red streaks spreading outward, or fever. Any of these needs a doctor.

   Important: Go to ER: bleeding won't stop after 10 minutes, wound is gaping or very deep, caused by animal or human bite, glass still inside, or tetanus vaccination is over 5 years old.

Guidance only — in any emergency, call 911.