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Scrapes (Abrasions)
Scrapes (abrasions) are skin wounds that rub or tear off skin. Most scrapes are shallow and do not extend far into the skin, but some may remove several layers of skin. Usually there is little bleeding from a scrape, but it may ooze pinkish fluid.
Teens: How can you care for scrapes (abrasions)?
- If your doctor told you how to care for your wound, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
- Wash the scrape with clean water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
- You may cover the scrape with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
- Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.
- Prop up the injured area on a pillow anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.
- Be safe with medicines. Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
Scrapes (abrasions) in children: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the scrape.
- Red streaks leading from the scrape.
- Pus draining from the scrape.
- A fever.
- The scrape starts to bleed, and blood soaks through the bandage. Oozing small amounts of blood is normal.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if the scrape is not getting better each day.
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