Most minor wounds can be dealt with at home. However, if you have ever cut your finger, you will know that even a small wound can bleed a lot. Severe bleeding can be life-threatening and needs immediate medical treatment.

Most cuts and grazes will usually scab over and heal quickly. The main aim of treating a minor wound is to minimise the risk of infection and aid the healing process.

Anyone who is treating a cut or graze should wash their hands before and afterwards, to minimise the risk of infection. Antiseptic hand preparations or alcohol hand rubs may also be useful. Example: Cuticura Hand Hygiene range.

Large cuts may require immediate medical treatment, but advise customers on the following simple steps to deal with minor cuts and grazes:

• Clean the wound €“ the affected area should be rinsed under running water to wash away any dirt. Any small particles should be carefully removed with sterile tweezers. Larger or deeply embedded foreign bodies (e.g. a piece of glass or large splinter) in the wound should not be removed as this could cause further bleeding. In these cases, the customer is likely to need immediate medical attention
• Stop the bleeding €“ if the cut or graze doesn't stop bleeding on its own, apply gentle pressure with a clean, lint-free (i.e. not fluffy) cloth or bandage. Do not remove the bandage regulary to check the wound, as this may remove any blood clots that have formed. If applicable, the limb with the wound should be elevated
• Treat the wound €“ the wound should be patted dry with a sterile swab or lint-free dressing. A thin layer of antiseptic cream or ointment should be applied. Examples: Savlon Antiseptic Cream, Germolene Ointment
• Protect the wound €“ to help keep the wound clean and stop bacteria from getting in and possibly causing an infection, it should be protected with a plaster or bandage appropriate for the location.

A wide range of plasters are available, from spray plasters, which are useful if the injury is on a hand or joint, to advanced healing plasters, which create an ideal environment for healing. For example, some plasters contain silver ions, which help to manage a range of germs and bacteria, thus helping to protect wounds from infection. Hydrocolloid plasters cushion and protect wounds at the same time as aiding natural healing, while alginate pads help to prevent scarring. Examples: Savlon Advanced Plasters, Elastoplast Silver Healing.