CARING FOR CUTS AND GRAZES

If a cut or graze is deep or severe, it's important to see your doctor or visit your local A&E department. For more minor cuts and grazes there's a lot you can do to help stop infection and speed up the healng process.

• The basics come first. Make sure you wash your hands well before applying any plasters or dressings. Better still, add a few pairs of disposable surgical gloves to your first aid kit - wearing them really cuts the risk of infection
• Clean the wound carefully under cold running water, wiping away any dirt and grit
• If anything is embedded under the skin, leave it alone, then visit your GP or local A&E
• If nothing is embedded apply pressure until the bleeding stops
• Dry the skin around the wound carefully
• Cover and protect with a medicare fabric or waterproof plaster