In this Article

• What is the best way to care for a cut or scrape?
• Who should seek medical care for a cut?
• What are the signs of a wound infection?
• How are puncture wounds different?
• Will I need a tetanus shot?
• Cuts, Scrapes and Puncture Wounds At A Glance
• Cuts, Scrapes and Puncture Wounds Glossary
• Cuts, Scrapes and Puncture Wounds Index

Will I need a tetanus shot?

Most people in the United States have been immunized against tetanus (lockjaw). If you have been immunized, you will need a booster shot if you have not had one within 10 years (if it is a very dirty wound or occurs in a tetanus prone area-you need a booster within five years). If you have never had a tetanus shot, or if your series is incomplete (fewer than three shots), you might need tetanus immunoglobulin, a medication that can prevent lockjaw.

Cuts, Scrapes & Puncture Wounds At A Glance

• Washing a cut or scrape with soap and water and keeping it clean and dry is all that is required to care for most wounds.
  
  
• Cleaning the wound with hydrogen peroxide and iodine is acceptable initially but can delay healing and should be avoided long-term.
  
  
• Apply antibiotic ointment and keep the wound covered.
  
  
• Seek medical care within six hours if you think you might need stitches. Any delay can increase the rate of wound infection.
  
  
• Any puncture wound through sneakers has a high risk of infection and should be seen by your healthcare professional.
  
  
• Any redness, swelling, increased pain, fever or pus draining from the wound may indicate an infection that requires professional care.

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