What is an Abrasion
Abrasion is a cut or scrape on the outer surface of your skin. An abrasion does not extend through all of the layers of your skin. It is important to care for your abrasion properly to prevent infection.
What are the causes?
Most abrasions are caused by falling on or gliding across the ground or another surface. When your skin rubs on something, the outer and inner layer of skin rubs off.
What are the signs or symptoms?
A cut or scrape is the main symptom of this condition. The scrape may be bleeding, or it may appear red or pink. If there was an associated fall, there may be an underlying bruise.
How is this diagnosed?
An abrasion is diagnosed with a physical exam.
How is this treated?
Treatment for this condition depends on how large and deep the abrasion is. Usually, your abrasion will be cleaned with water and mild soap. This removes any dirt or debris that may be stuck. An antibiotic ointment may be applied to the abrasion to help prevent infection. A bandage (dressing) may be placed on the abrasion to keep it clean.
You may also need a tetanus shot.
Follow these instructions at home:
Medicines
- Take or apply medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
- If you were prescribed an antibiotic ointment, finish all of it even if you start to feel better.
Wound care
- Clean the wound with mild soap and water 2–3 times per day or as directed by your health care provider. Pat your wound dry with a clean towel. Do notrub it.
- There
are many different ways to close and cover a wound. Follow instructions
from your health care provider about:
- Wound care.
- Dressing changes and removal.
- Check
your wound every day for signs of infection. Watch for:
- Redness, swelling, or pain.
- Fluid, blood, or pus.
General instructions
- Keep the dressing dry as directed by your health care provider. Do nottake baths, swim, use a hot tub, or do anything that would put your wound underwater until your health care provider approves.
- If there is swelling, raise (elevate) the injured area above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down.
- Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.
Contact a health care provider if:
- You received a tetanus shot and you have swelling, severe pain, redness, or bleeding at the injection site.
- Your pain is not controlled with medicine.
- You have increased redness, swelling, or pain at the site of your wound.
Get help right away if:
- You have a red streak going away from your wound.
- You have a fever.
- You have fluid, blood, or pus coming from your wound.
- You notice a bad smell coming from your wound or your dressing.
