Apply pressure to the wound if it is bleeding with a tissue, gauze pad, or a clean cloth. Do not check the wound while applying pressure (removing the cloth frequently may cause blood clots to form). Although, if the blood bleeds through, change the cloth. If bleeding persists after 10-15 minutes, seek medical assistance for possible stitches.

Step One

When bleeding stops, rinse the cut thoroughly with cool water. If this causes the bleeding to return, hold pressure again for a few minutes.

Step Two

Use tweezers sterilized in rubbing alcohol to remove foreign matter like dirt or glass remaining in the wound.

Step Three

Step Four

Use soap and a soft washcloth to clean the skin around the wound. But do try to keep soap out of the wound itself because it can cause irritation.

Step Five

Apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment. For deeper cuts, see the next step

Step Six

Apply a bandaid or butterfly bandage to a deeper cut after bleeding has stopped or slowed.