These should be treated in the following manner to prevent infection and to aid in healing with less scarring.
- 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.
- Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water. Cover with an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin. A clean bandage should be applied.
- 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.
- Alcohol, Campho-Phenique, first aid cream, iodine, Mercurochrome and Merthiolate are not recommended, as they can injure the tissues.