Caring for lacerations
Lacerations are made by tearing or caused by strong, short-lasting blunt force. Follow the treatment steps below, which are based on recommendations by the Department of Health of Western Australia:
1. Wash your hands:
“Prior to cleaning or dressing the wound, ensure your hands are washed to prevent contamination and infection of the wound.” 1
2. Rinse the wound
“Gently rinse the wound with clean, lukewarm water to cleanse and remove any fragments of dirt, e.g. gravel, as this will reduce the risk of infection.” 1
3. Dry the skin
“Gently pat dry the surrounding skin with a clean pad or towel.” 1
4. Stop the bleeding:
“Use a clean towel to apply light pressure to the area until bleeding stops (this may take a few minutes).” 1
5. Cover the wound:
“Use a non-stick or gentle dressing and lightly bandage in place; try to avoid using tape on fragile skin to prevent further trauma on dressing removal.” 1
6. Manage the pain
Lacerations can be painful. “[…] consider pain relief while the wound heals. Talk to your GP about options for pain relief.” 1
When to seek medical advice
“See your doctor or nurse if the wound:
- shows signs of infection
- continues to bleed
- you are unable to realign the skin
- has dirt, glass, a thorn or other foreign body in the wound
- seems large or deep
- is not healing, or is very slow to heal (e.g. not healed after 4 weeks)
Or if:
- you have an underlying medical condition
- you have another injury or hit your head at the time of the injury (you may have a concussion or fracture)
- there is a risk of further injury
- you are unsure how to manage the wound, or have any concerns.” 1
How to deal with loose skin
If (e. g. in case of a scalp laceration) there is a skin flap and it is still attached, carefully return the skin flap as far as possible to its original position over the wound with a moist cotton swab or pad.
Caution: If you are unsure how to manage the wound please seek medical advice.
When in doubt, see a medical expert
Many common wounds can be dealt with at home. But when should a doctor be consulted? Scroll down for more information!
Medical references