How to Best Treat Scrapes and Bruises
Scrapes and bruises are part of life and can happen at any time and at any age. We want to teach you the best ways to treat scrapes and bruises at home. Make sure to have a first aid kit at home, in your car, and out on the trails for these unexpected situations.
Scrapes
- Wash your hands to prevent infection.
- Stop the bleeding if needed by gently pressing on the wound until it stops bleeding. Use a clean cloth to avoid spreading infection.
- Gently clean the wound with a clean cloth, soap, and water. Remove debris if there is any.
- Put first aid cream on the wound to help the wound heal.
- Cover wound with bandaid or gauze. Make sure to change bandaid or gauze once a day or when it becomes wet or dirty.
Bruises
Wrap ice in a thin towel and apply covered ice to bruised area for 20 minutes. Repeat multiple times a day but only for 20 minutes at a time. 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
If bruise swells or is very painful, consult a medical professional as it could indicate a broken bone.
More than just a Scrape or Bruise
For accidents that are more than just a scrape or bruise, you may always come to our Community Clinic that offers care in more severe cases. Learn more about our Community Clinic.