Caring for cuts and grazes

If a cut or graze is deep or severe, it's important to see your GP or visit your local A&E department. For more minor cuts and grazes there's a lot you can do to help stop infection and speed up the healng process.

• The basics come first. Make sure you wash your hands well before applying any plasters or dressings. Better still, add a few pairs of disposable surgical gloves to your first aid kit - wearing them really cuts the risk of infection.
  

• Clean the wound carefully under cold running water, wiping away any dirt and grit.

• If anything is embedded under the skin, leave it alone, then visit your GP or local A&E
  

• If nothing is embedded apply pressure until the bleeding stops
  

• Dry the skin around the wound carefully

• Cover and protect with an Elastoplast SilverHealing plaster.