Wash your hands
Stop the bleeding with gentle pressure using a clean cloth or bandage
Rinse the cut under clean running water
Clean around the cut with mild soap and water
Remove any visible dirt or debris with clean tweezers
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if desired
Cover the cut with a sterile bandage or dressing
Change the bandage daily or when wet or dirty
Keep the cut clean and dry
Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or worsening pain
Seek medical care if the cut is deep, gaping, won’t stop bleeding, or was caused by a dirty or rusty object
Seek medical care if the cut is on the face, near the eye, over a joint, or from an animal or human bite
Get a tetanus shot if needed based on your vaccination status and the wound type