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Do This Right Now

1

Apply firm pressure

Press a clean cloth or towel firmly on the wound. Do NOT lift it to check — keep pressing. If blood soaks through, add more cloth on top.

Do NOT remove objects stuck in the wound. Press around them.

2

Call 911 if bleeding is severe

Call 911 if blood is spurting, will not stop after 10 minutes of pressure, or if the wound is very deep or large. Also call if the child is pale, dizzy, or not responding.

3

Raise the injured area

If possible, raise the wounded area above the heart while maintaining pressure. This slows bleeding.

4

Keep them calm and warm

Lay the child down. Cover them with a blanket. Talk to them calmly. Blood loss can cause shock — watch for pale skin, rapid breathing, or confusion.

5

Do NOT clean deep wounds

For deep or heavily bleeding cuts, do not try to clean the wound — let medical professionals handle it. For minor cuts, rinse gently with clean water once bleeding slows.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Call 911 or go to the ER if you see any of these signs

  • Blood is spurting or will not stop with pressure
  • Cannot control bleeding after 10-15 minutes of firm pressure
  • Wound is deep enough to see fat, muscle, or bone
  • Cut is on the face, near eyes, or crossing a joint
  • Object is embedded in the wound
  • Signs of shock: pale skin, rapid breathing, confusion
  • Numbness or inability to move the area below the wound
  • Wound is from an animal bite or rusty object

Usually Fine With Home Care

Minor cuts that can typically be treated at home

  • Small cuts that stop bleeding with gentle pressure
  • Shallow scrapes and scratches
  • Cuts less than half an inch long
  • Wound edges come together naturally
  • Normal sensation and movement beyond the cut

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a cut needs stitches?

A cut likely needs stitches if it is deeper than 1/4 inch, longer than 1/2 inch, has gaping edges that do not stay together, is on the face, or will not stop bleeding with pressure.

How long do I have to get stitches?

Stitches work best within 6-8 hours for most body parts, and up to 24 hours for face wounds. After that, doctors may need to close the wound differently or let it heal on its own.

Should I remove an object stuck in a wound?

No. Leave embedded objects in place and apply pressure around them. Removing an object can cause more bleeding. Let medical professionals handle it.

Do scalp cuts always need stitches?

Scalp wounds bleed heavily because of rich blood supply, but many heal well without stitches. If bleeding stops with pressure and the cut is small, you may not need stitches. When in doubt, get it checked.

When does my child need a tetanus shot?

If the wound is from a dirty or rusty object and it has been more than 5 years since the last tetanus shot, your child may need a booster. For clean wounds, boosters are recommended every 10 years.

This guide is for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or go to the ER.