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eye injury: first aid for minor cuts

overview

here are steps to take to clean a minor cut near the eye.

  1. stop the bleeding.
    • wear medical gloves, or if gloves are not available, use a clean cloth or plastic bag or cleanest material available.
    • apply light pressure to a very minor skin cut near the eye to stop the bleeding.

    do not apply any pressure to the eyeball.

  2. clean the cut.
    • wash your hands and wear gloves if they are available.
    • wash the cut under running tap water and use a face cloth to remove all the dirt, debris, and bacteria from the wound.
  3. bandage the cut.
    • use a sterile bandage if you have one.
    • if you don't have one, use a clean bandage or cloth.
    • don't use fluffy cotton bandages around the eye. they could come apart and stick to the eye.
  4. decide if more care is needed.
    • if the cut is more than very minor or if you are concerned, have the cut evaluated by a health professional.
    • a small cut on the inner eyelid may damage tear ducts and should be evaluated.

related information

credits

current as of: july 10, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

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