Health Tip: Clean a Wound Carefully

And help reduce the risk of infection

January 25, 2012 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- When you get a cut, scrape or minor puncture wound, careful cleaning can help prevent an infection.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions for cleaning a minor wound:

Run cool water over the wound, either by pouring from a cup or holding the area under running water.
Using a soft washcloth and soap, gently clean the skin.
Avoid applying soap directly in the wound.
Clean a pair of tweezers with isopropyl alcohol, then use the tweezers to remove any dirt or debris in and around the wound.
Avoid using strong cleansing solutions such as hydrogen peroxide or iodine. Use plain water unless otherwise directed by a doctor.