Wash your hands
Rinse the wound with clean running water for 5 to 10 minutes
Gently remove dirt and debris with clean tweezers
Wash around the area with mild soap and water
Pat dry with clean gauze or a clean cloth
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly
Cover with a sterile non-stick dressing
Change the dressing daily or when it gets wet or dirty
Keep the wound clean and protected
Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed
Elevate the injured area if it is swollen
Watch for signs of infection such as redness, warmth, pus, or worsening pain
Seek medical care if the wound is deep, large, won’t stop bleeding, or has embedded debris
Get a tetanus shot if you are not up to date
Avoid picking at scabs or reopening the wound