A plaster or larger dressing is usually all that is needed to stop a wound bleeding. However, you might need to apply pressure to the area, and if an arm or leg is affected, you should raise it above heart level if possible.

create-a-high-resolution-highly-detailed-image-illustrating-the-process-of-1 How do I clean a wound?

Follow these steps:

  • wash and dry your hands thoroughly
  • wear disposable gloves if available 
  • if treating someone else, tell them what you’re doing and make sure they’re sitting or lying down
  • don’t try to remove anything embedded in the wound – seek medical advice (see below)
  • rinse the wound under running tap water for 5 to 10 minutes
  • soak a gauze pad or cloth in saline solution or tap water, or use an alcohol-free wipe, and gently dab or wipe the skin with it – don’t use antiseptic as this may damage the skin
  • gently pat the area dry using a clean towel or pad of tissues, but nothing fluffy such as a cotton wool ball – strands of material can get stuck to the wound
  • apply a sterile dressing, such as non-adhesive pad with a bandage, or a plaster – use a waterproof dressing if available
  • if blood soaks through the dressing, leave it in place and add another dressing, and continue to apply pressure on the wound

When to seek medical advice

  • does not stop bleeding
  • is very large or very deep
  • has something embedded in it
  • is too painful for you to successfully clean
  • is near to a major blood vessel or joint
  • becomes red and swollen or has pus coming out – it may be infected
  • was caused by a bite – all animal and human bites need medical attention