Abrasions occur when several layers of skin are torn loose or totally removed. Abrasions are painful; usually more painful than a deeper cut. The scrape of skin exposes millions of nerve endings.

TREATMENT:

• Wash the wound with soap and water, removing all dirt and debris. Hydrogen peroxide may be used, but soap and water is as effective. If particles of dirt, rocks, or tar are embedded, it might be necessary to scrub the wound. This can be very painful and might require local anesthetic or oral pain medication prior to cleaning the wound.
• Antibiotic ointment may be applied to the wound. This is optional; the main advantage of antibiotic ointments is in keeping the bandage from sticking to the wound.
• Usually abrasions are left open to air unless oozing of fluid or blood is present. A non-stick adhesive dressing may be used for a couple of days and then the wound may be left open to air. Generally, scrapes "scab" over quickly.
• Loose skin flaps, if they are not dirty, may be left in place to help form a natural dressing to tender tissue. If the skin flap is dirty, cut it off carefully with a clean nail clipper. If trimming the flap causes pain, stop! You might be cutting healthy tissue.
• Pain may be mild to moderate, depending on the severity of the abrasion. Ice packs or cool towels might be helpful in relieving pain. Tylenol, aspirin, or ibuprofen can be used if needed.
• Check on date of last tetanus immunization. These should be given every 10 years.

WATCH FOR SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF INFECTION!

Infection will not be obvious in the first 24 hours. Seek medical attention for the abrasion if any of the following symptoms occur:

• Pain increases after several days following initial injury
• Redness or red streaks appear beyond the expected redness at the edges
• Swelling at the injured area, proximal or distal to wound
• Purulent drainage (yellow, green, or bloody foul-smelling pus)