Wash your hands before touching the wound
Gently clean the wound with mild soap and water
Pat the area dry with clean gauze or a clean towel
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment if appropriate
Cover the wound with a sterile, non-stick dressing
Change the dressing whenever it becomes wet or dirty
Keep the wound protected from friction and pressure
Elevate the injured area if swelling is present
Avoid picking at scabs or removing healing tissue
Use absorbent gauze if the wound is draining more than usual
Keep the surrounding skin dry and clean
Seek medical care if the drainage increases, becomes cloudy, yellow, green, or foul-smelling
Seek medical care if there is redness, warmth, swelling, worsening pain, fever, or red streaks
Seek medical care if the wound is deep, large, bleeding heavily, or not healing
Seek medical care if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system