What to expect from wound care and dressing for cuts and lacerations

The clinician will ask how the injury happened and when it occurred. They may rinse the wound, remove dirt, control bleeding and examine the skin edges. Assessment can include movement, sensation and circulation beyond the injury, because a cut may affect a tendon, nerve or blood vessel. The wound may be closed with strips, glue, stitches or left open when contamination or swelling makes closure unsuitable. A dressing cushions the area and reduces contact with dirt.

Follow the instructions about keeping the first dressing in place and changing it. Wash your hands before handling it, use the recommended materials and avoid soaking the wound unless told otherwise. Protect the area from pulling and repeated rubbing. Keep any prescribed medicine schedule, and attend review for removal of stitches or checking of the wound when advised. Do not put alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or unapproved creams into the wound.

Arrange urgent assessment if bleeding continues despite firm pressure, the wound becomes more painful or opens, or you notice spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever or red streaks. Seek immediate help for numbness, pale or blue skin, loss of movement, a deep wound, a foreign object, or a cut involving the eye, face, hand or a joint.

Ask how often to change the dressing, whether the wound needs closure, when stitches or strips should be reviewed, and which symptoms mean you should return sooner. Confirm how to protect the area during bathing, work or exercise.