Wash your hands before touching the wound
Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze to stop bleeding
Rinse the wound gently with clean running water
Remove visible dirt with clean tweezers cleaned with alcohol
Pat the area dry with clean gauze
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly
Cover with a sterile bandage or dressing
Change the dressing daily or when wet or dirty
Keep the wound clean and dry
Avoid picking at scabs
Rest the injured area and reduce movement if possible
Elevate the area if it is swollen
Eat enough protein, vitamin C, and zinc
Drink plenty of water
Get enough sleep
Seek medical care if the wound is deep, gaping, very dirty, from an animal or human bite, or shows signs of infection
