Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the wound
Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze to stop bleeding
Rinse the wound with clean running water
Clean around the wound with mild soap and water
Remove visible dirt or debris with clean tweezers if needed
Pat the area dry with a clean towel or sterile gauze
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if appropriate
Cover the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing
Change the dressing daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty
Keep the wound clean and dry
Avoid picking at scabs or removing healing tissue
Monitor for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or increasing pain
Seek medical care if bleeding does not stop, the wound is deep, or signs of infection appear
Get medical attention if the wound was caused by a bite, puncture, dirty object, or if tetanus vaccination is not up to date