Definition: A laceration is a deep cut or tear in the skin, often caused by a sharp object.

Initial Care: Control bleeding by applying direct pressure. Clean thoroughly with mild soap and water. Apply a clean bandage.

Post Care: If the cut is deep, longer than ½ inch, or has jagged edges, seek medical care for possible stitches.

Referral/Sutures: Yes, if wound is deep, gaping, or heavily bleeding

Definition: A puncture wound is a small, deep hole caused by a pointed object.

Initial Care: Let the wound bleed briefly to help flush out bacteria. Wash with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic and cover with a clean bandage.

Post Care: Watch closely for infection, as puncture wounds can easily become infected. Seek medical care if the object was dirty or if you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past 5 years.

Referral/Sutures: Not usually stitched, but medical evaluation is important to check for deep tissue damage.

Definition: An avulsion is a wound where tissue is forcibly detached from the body.

Initial Care: Control bleeding with direct pressure and a clean cloth. Save the torn tissue in a moist, sterile wrap and seek immediate medical care.

Post Care: Often requires surgery or skin grafts depending on the severity.

Referral/Sutures: Immediate medical attention needed for reattachment or surgical intervention.

Definition: An amputation is a complete loss of a body part.

Initial Care: Control bleeding with pressure. Wrap the severed part in a sterile, moist cloth, place in a sealed plastic bag, and keep cool (but do not freeze). Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.

Post Care: Surgical reattachment or wound closure in hospital. Rehabilitation and possible prosthetics.

Referral/Sutures: Immediate emergency care.

Wash hands thoroughly before and after wound care.

Wear disposable gloves when touching blood or open wounds.

Use clean, sterile materials (bandages, gauze, etc.).

Dispose of contaminated materials in a biohazard bag if needed.

Signs of Infection: Redness, swelling, warmth, pus discharge, pain that worsens, or fever.

Picture/Video of Infected Wound: A wound with obvious redness, swelling, and yellow/green discharge