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| Many cuts and scrapes can be safely treated at home, as long as they aren't associated with other more severe injuries. If a cut is over other important structures (hands, feet, or joints, for example) or if the skin doesn't readily stay closed by itself, seek medical attention. Cuts due to penetrating injuries, like the point of a knife or the point of a piece of glass may cause damage to structures below the cut, and should be evaluated by a doctor. Of course, if a cut continues to bleed despite a trial of direct pressure, seek medical care. Cuts associated with numbness or movement problems need a doctor's care, too. Scrapes may need professional care if there is dirt imbedded in the wound, or if the scraped area is at a joint and there is a possibility of joint penetration. Minor cuts and scrapes usually respond well to cleaning, antibiotic ointment, and a sterile dressing. Remember that you need a tetanus booster when cut or scraped if it's been more than 5 years since the last one. |
| Sprains and strains are injuries to the soft tissue supporting joints. It's often necessary to see a doctor to be sure there isn't a fracture, and to get proper treatment. Improperly treated sprains can lead to weakness in the joint, making it more likely to be reinjured in the future. |
| Although there are lots of ideas about
how to treat minor nosebleeds, the following procedure is recommended by
the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
- Sit with your head leaning forward.
Note: If you are unable to stop a nosebleed by using the Self-Care Procedures, call your doctor. |
On to Lesson 2