Cleaning a Wound

To clean a wound well: Wash your hands first. Remove large pieces of dirt or debris from the wound with cleaned tweezers. Do not push the tweezers deeply into the wound. Hold the wound under cool running water. If you have a sprayer in your sink, you can use it to help remove dirt and other debris from the wound. Scrub…

Cleaning a Wound

Cleaning a Wound

To clean a wound well:

  • Wash your hands first.
  • Remove large pieces of dirt or debris from the wound with cleaned tweezers. Do not push the tweezers deeply into the wound.
  • Hold the wound under cool running water. If you have a sprayer in your sink, you can use it to help remove dirt and other debris from the wound.
  • Scrub gently with water, a mild soap, and a washcloth.
  • If some dirt or other debris is still in the wound, clean it again.
  • If the wound starts to bleed, put direct, steady pressure on it.

If a chemical has caused a wound or burn, follow the instructions on the chemical’s container or call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) to find out what to do. Most chemicals should be rinsed off with lots of water, but with some chemicals, water may make the burn worse.

Credits

Current as ofJune 26, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD – Family Medicine

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