These should be treated in the following manner to prevent infection and to aid in healing with less scarring.

  1. If there is any possibility that stitches might be required, the child should be brought in for an evaluation. Stitches cannot be placed after 6 hours from the time of injury.
  2. Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water. Cover with an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin. A clean bandage should be applied.
  3. A clean, minor wound should require no tetanus booster if your child is up to date on his/her immunizations. If the wound is dirty or deep, and it has been more than 5 years since the child’s last tetanus shot, then a booster is indicated within 24 hours of the injury. See immunization section for more details.
  4. Alcohol, Campho-Phenique, first aid cream, iodine, Mercurochrome and Merthiolate are not recommended, as they can injure the tissues.