How to Treat a Wound at Home

Many of things people have traditionally treated wounds – hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, dry dressings – have now been shown to harm tissue and slow healing. To heal, wounds require a clean, moist environment. Here are the steps you should take at home for care of minor wounds:

• Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
• Apply a first aid or antibiotic ointment.
• Cover with an adhesive bandage.
• If the wound becomes infected, or it has not healed within one month, see your physician.