Injuries
Cuts and Grazes
For a minor cut or graze, clean it under running water, apply pressure to stop bleeding, and cover with a plaster or dressing.
When to call 999. Most cuts do not need 999. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding that will not stop with pressure, deep or gaping wounds that may need stitches, an object stuck in the wound, or signs of serious infection.
What to do
- Wash your hands and, if bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth until it slows.
- Rinse the wound under clean running water to remove dirt and grit.
- Gently pat the surrounding skin dry with a clean cloth.
- Apply a sterile adhesive dressing or plaster; for larger grazes use a non-stick dressing.
- Take pain relief such as paracetamol if needed.
- Change the dressing regularly and keep the wound clean and dry.
Avoid
What not to do
Do not use antiseptic cream that keeps the wound too moist unless advised, do not pick at scabs, and do not ignore dirt that cannot be rinsed out. Do not delay medical help if a wound is deep, dirty, or from a bite or rusty object.
Afterwards and while you wait
Watch for infection — spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, increasing pain or fever — and see a doctor if these appear. Check your tetanus status for dirty wounds, animal bites or puncture injuries, as a booster may be needed.
Education and reference only. This is general first-aid information aligned with UK guidance, not a substitute for a hands-on first-aid course or professional emergency care. In a life-threatening emergency, call 999 straight away.
Answers
Cuts and Grazes: frequently asked questions
When does a cut need stitches?
A cut may need stitches or medical closure if it is deep, gaping, longer than about 1 cm, on the face, over a joint, will not stop bleeding, or has an object or dirt that cannot be removed.
Do I need a tetanus jab for a cut?
You may, especially for deep, dirty or puncture wounds, animal bites, or if your vaccinations are not up to date. Check with a GP or urgent care if you are unsure.
Related
Other injuries first aid
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — first aid
- St John Ambulance / British Red Cross first-aid guidance
- Resuscitation Council UK (where relevant)
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