Initial home care for a laceration includes:

• Apply direct pressure to control bleeding:
• Use a gauze or clean cloth directly on the wound.
• Maintain constant pressure for at least 10 minutes.
• Do not interrupt the pressure, in order to look at the wound.
• Clean the wound:
• Use mild soap and water.
• Do not scrub the wound.
• Remove dirt or foreign material from the wound.
• Running water can help remove dirt.
• Apply antibiotic ointment.
• Cover the wound:
• Use gauze or an elastic bandage.
• Wounds to the face may be left uncovered.
• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Rest the injured area.
• Elevate the injured area.

Ongoing home care for a laceration includes:

• Clean the skin gently:
• 2-3 times a day
• Use mild soap and water.
• Do not scrub the skin.
• Wounds to the foot need special care:
• Clean foot wounds three to four times a day
• Wear an open shoe.
• Gently clean scabs on the face with a soft cloth and hydrogen peroxide:
• Try not to cause bleeding.
• Dry the wound gently, and completely, with a clean towel or gauze.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment.
• Cover the wound:
• Use gauze or an elastic bandage.
• Wounds to the face may be left uncovered.
• Acetaminophen for pain
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain
• Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
• Naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, Aleve)
• Ketoprofen (Orudis)
• Take prescribed medications as directed.

Tetanus Considerations
A tetanus shot is necessary right away if you have not had three tetanus shots in the past.

If you have received three tetanus shots in the past, you need a tetanus shot within three days for a dirty wound.