the top layer of skin wears away, exposing numerous blood capillaries

increases the probability of infection

may also result in skin avulsion

direct penetration of tissues can introduce the tetanus bacillus into the bloodstream, possibly making the athlete a victim of lockjaw

all severe lacerations and puncture wounds should be referred immediately to a physician

associated with major bleeding

to reattach the torn tissue, the avulsed tissue should be placed on moist gauze, preferably saturated with saline solution

should be taken along with the athlete to the hospital for reattachment

All wounds should be treated as though they have been contaminated with microorganisms

must be cleaned, medicated, (when called for), and dressed as soon as possible

To minimize the chances of infection, the wound should be cleaned with copious amounts of soap and water or a sterile solution

avoid using hydrogen peroxide and bacterial solutions initially

occlusive dressings provide a complete barrier around and over a wound and are air-tight and water-tight

saline solutions are recommended for cleaning wounds repeatedly

hand hygiene

protective equipment

sharps safety