How can you properly clean and care for a cut, scrape, or burn to prevent infection?
### How to Clean and Care for a Cut, Scrape, or Burn
1. **Clean Your Hands**: Use soap and water or hand sanitizer to clean your hands. If possible, wear disposable gloves to avoid contaminating the wound.
2. **Stop the Bleeding**: If the wound is bleeding, use a clean cloth or sterile gauze to gently press on the wound until the bleeding stops. Elevate the affected area if possible. If blood soaks through the cloth, add another layer without removing the first one.
3. **Clean the Wound**: For cuts and scrapes, rinse the area with clean water. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or iodine. For burns, rinse under cool (not cold) water for 10-15 minutes or apply a cool cloth.
4. **Apply Antibiotic Ointment**: Over-the-counter antibiotics like Neosporin can help keep the wound moist and prevent infection. Apply a thin layer unless you are allergic.
5. **Bandage the Wound**: Not all wounds need bandaging, but if the wound is in an area that gets dirty or rubs against clothing, cover it with a sterile, nonstick bandage. Change the bandage daily or when it gets wet or dirty.
**Additional Tips**:
- Avoid picking at scabs to prevent scarring.
- Seek medical attention for large wounds, burns with blisters, or if you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus.
- Check with your doctor about a tetanus booster if the wound is deep or caused by a dirty object.