Wounds, cuts and grazes

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}; function onError(error) {}</script> </div> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> initialiseSocialShare('socialshare-node-desktop-mode', "https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/wounds-cuts-and-grazes"); </script> </span> </div> <div id="readspeaker_button1" class="rs_skip rsbtn rs_preserve"> <a rel="nofollow" class="rsbtn_play" accesskey="L" title="Listen to this page using ReadSpeaker" href="//app-oc.readspeaker.com/cgi-bin/rsent?customerid=8207&lang=en_au&readid=mainContentArticleText&url=https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/wounds-cuts-and-grazes"> <span class="rsbtn_left rsimg rspart"><span class="rsbtn_text"><span>Listen</span></span></span> <span class="rsbtn_right rsimg rsplay rspart"></span> </a> </div> </header> <div class="main_content-body-text"><div class="cont_layout-container"> <div class="cont_layout-media-object"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object-left dor-icon_warning" style="color:#e25553; font-size: 36px;"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object-right cont_label-small"><strong>If you have a serious wound with bleeding, a broken bone, a serious burn, a significant head injury or an injury from a fall, call an ambulance on triple zero (000).</strong></p> </div> </div> <div class="cont_layout-standout"> <h2 id="key-facts">Key facts</h2> <ul> <li>Cuts, grazes and lacerations are all examples of wounds.</li> <li>A wound is a break or damage to your skin.</li> <li>You can care for most wounds at home and manage pain with medicine.</li> <li>Some wounds will need stitches or dressing by a doctor to help them heal.</li> <li>If you have a wound and are not up to date on your tetanus immunisation, you should see a doctor.</li> </ul> </div> <nav class="cont_nav-index-table__double-col"> <h2>On this page</h2> <ul> <li><a href="#what-are">What are wounds, cuts and grazes?</a></li> <li><a href="#symptoms">What are the symptoms of wounds, cuts and grazes?</a></li> <li><a href="#causes">What causes wounds, cuts and grazes?</a></li> <li><a href="#doctor">When should I see my doctor?</a></li> <li><a href="#diagnosis">How are wounds, cuts and grazes diagnosed?</a></li> <li><a href="#treatment">How are wounds, cuts and grazes treated?</a></li> <li><a href="#prevention">Can wounds, cuts and grazes be prevented?</a></li> <li><a href="#complications">Complications of wounds, cuts and grazes</a></li> <li><a href="#resources">Resources and support</a></li> <li><a href="#searchGeneralResults">Related information on Australian websites</a></li> </ul> </nav> <h2 id="what-are">What are wounds, cuts and grazes?</h2> <p>Cuts, grazes and lacerations are all examples of wounds. A wound is a break or damage to the skin's surface.</p> <p>Cuts are also called incisions. They are neat, straight wounds in your skin.</p> <p>Lacerations are a deep cut or tear of your skin — they usually have irregular jagged edges. </p> <p>Grazes are also known as abrasions. They are superficial (surface) injuries to the upper layer of your skin.</p> <h2 id="symptoms">What are the symptoms of wounds, cuts and grazes?</h2> <p>Cuts, grazes and lacerations are all examples of wounds. </p> <p>Wounds may be:</p> <ul> <li>painful</li> <li>red</li> <li>swollen</li> </ul> <p>Wounds may also bleed. Cuts can sometimes damage your blood vessels causing a lot of bleeding.</p> <a href="/symptom-checker" class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-left dor-icon_user-md"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-right"><strong>CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS</strong> — Use the <strong class="cont_underline">Symptom Checker</strong> and find out if you need to seek medical help.</p> </a> <h2 id="causes">What causes wounds, cuts and grazes?</h2> <h3>What causes wounds?</h3> <p>Wounds can be caused by something sudden, such as:</p> <ul> <li>a cut</li> <li>a fall</li> <li>knocking against an object</li> </ul> <p>Puncture wounds are deep wounds caused by a sharp pointed object penetrating the skin, such as:</p> <ul> <li>a nail</li> <li>an <a href="/dog-cat-bat-and-human-bites">animal bite</a> </li> </ul> <p>Surgical wounds are cuts made during surgery. They are usually closed with sutures (stitches). </p> <p>Sometimes wounds may appear due to not moving enough or because of diseases of your veins, arteries or nerves. These types of wounds are called <a href="/pressure-sores-and-ulcers">sores and ulcers</a>. </p> <h3>What causes cuts?</h3> <p>Cuts are usually caused by a sharp object slicing the skin, like:</p> <ul> <li>a knife</li> <li>glass</li> <li>even a sheet of paper</li> </ul> <p>Lacerations happen when the skin is split from trauma — being hit by something hard.</p> <h3>What causes grazes?</h3> <p>Grazes are often caused by friction — when your skin is scraped away by a rough surface.</p> <p>Grazes can happen when you fall off a skateboard or bike and your body moves across the ground.</p> <h2 id="doctor">When should I see my doctor?</h2> <p>Minor wounds usually do not need medical attention.</p> <p>You should see a doctor or nurse within 6 hours if your wound:</p> <ul> <li>doesn't stop bleeding</li> <li>is on your eyelid or near your eye</li> <li>is dirty or happened in dirty water</li> <li>is very painful</li> <li>is over a joint, like your knee or knuckle</li> <li>is from a bite, whether by an animal or another human</li> <li>you're not sure whether you're up to date with your <a href="/tetanus">tetanus</a> shots</li> </ul> <p>You should also see a doctor if the wound is:</p> <ul> <li>more than a few millimetres deep</li> <li>gaping — the sides of the wound don't sit together well by themselves</li> </ul> <p>These kinds of wounds may need to be closed with:</p> <ul> <li>stitches</li> <li>tissue glue</li> <li>staples</li> </ul> <p>You should also see a doctor if you have any signs of infection. You can read more about infection below.</p> <h3>When to seek urgent care</h3> <p>If your wound is deep, a nurse or doctor should look at it within 2 hours.</p> <p>Call an ambulance and seek urgent care if you have a wound and:</p> <ul> <li>you feel faint, have chest pain, or are short of breath</li> <li>it is in your eye</li> </ul> <p>You should also call an ambulance if you have a deep wound and:</p> <ul> <li>it doesn't stop bleeding when you apply pressure</li> <li>you are taking blood-thinning medicines</li> </ul> <a href="/australian-health-services" class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout"> <i class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-left dor-icon_hospital"></i> <p class="cont_layout-media-object__icon-standout-right"><strong>FIND A HEALTH SERVICE</strong> — The <strong class="cont_underline">Service Finder</strong> can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.</p> </a> <h2 id="diagnosis">How are wounds, cuts and grazes diagnosed?</h2> <p>Your doctor will examine your wound and ask you:</p> <ul> <li>how it happened</li> <li>what your symptoms are</li> </ul> <p>They will also examine you to check that you have no other injuries.</p> <h2 id="treatment">How are wounds, cuts and grazes treated?</h2> <p>You can look after most wounds yourself, and they will heal themselves.</p> <p>However, some wounds may require treatment to help them heal and prevent infection.</p> <h3>Self-care at home </h3> <p>If you get a wound, you can:</p> <ul> <li>press firmly on the wound with a clean cloth or bandage for 5 minutes to stop the bleeding</li> <li>wash your hands well before cleaning the wound</li> <li>clean the wound by rinsing it with clean water or saline</li> <li>remove any dirt or debris with tweezers or a clean cloth</li> <li>dry the wound by patting the surrounding skin with a clean pad or towel</li> <li>if possible, cover the wound with a non-stick dressing, or a small band aid</li> </ul> <p>You can look after most minor cuts and wounds yourself, by:</p> <ul> <li>resting, so the wound does not open again</li> <li>keeping your wound clean</li> <li>covering the wound — this helps to keeps it moist as it heals </li> <li>keep the dressing dry and change it every few days</li> <li>avoiding the sun if possible — use an SPF 30+ sunscreen and wearing protective clothing</li> </ul> <p>It's also important to care for yourself, as this helps wounds heal faster. So:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/balanced-diet">eat healthy food</a></li> <li>avoid smoking</li> <li><a href="/managing-your-alcohol-intake">avoid drinking too much alcohol</a></li> </ul> <p>Avoid swimming with any cut (unless it's a small graze) until it is healed.</p> <h3>Medicines for wounds, cuts and grazes</h3> <p>If your wound is causing pain, you can take simple pain relief medicine such as:</p> <ul> <li>paracetamol</li> <li>ibuprofen</li> </ul> <p>You can speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on the best medicine for you. Antiseptic creams are not necessary.</p> <p>Your doctor may give you <a href="/antibiotics">antibiotics</a> to prevent the wound from becoming infected.</p> <h3>Other treatment options</h3> <p>If you have a gaping wound, your doctor may need to keep it closed it with:</p> <ul> <li>sutures (stitches)</li> <li>staples</li> <li>special glue</li> <li>special dressings</li> </ul> <p>This will help your wound to heal.</p> <h3>Wounds and diabetes</h3> <p>If you have diabetes, seek advice from your doctor or healthcare professional about caring for wounds.</p> <p>In people with diabetes, wounds on your feet may go unnoticed due to a loss of feeling called <a href="/neuropathy">neuropathy</a>. These wounds may heal more slowly due to poor blood flow and infection.</p> <h3>Tetanus</h3> <p>You should also see a doctor or nurse for a <a href="/immunisation-and-vaccinations">tetanus immunisation</a> within a day if you have had a cut or abrasion and any of the following apply:</p> <ul> <li>it is more than 10 years since your last tetanus shot or you can't remember when you last had one</li> <li>you have had less than 3 tetanus immunisations in your life, or you're not sure how many you've had</li> <li>it is more than 5 years since your last tetanus shot and your wound was dirty or deep</li> </ul> <h2 id="prevention">Can wounds, cuts and grazes be prevented?</h2> <p>There are some things you can do to reduce your risk of wounds, such as:</p> <ul> <li>using sharp objects safely</li> <li>doing daily foot checks and seeing your podiatrist regularly if you have <a href="/diabetes">diabetes</a></li> <li>cover and protect your skin if it is thin or fragile</li> </ul> <p>For activities such as sport, gardening, and crafts, be sure to wear protective gear and clothing such as:</p> <ul> <li>eye protection</li> <li>gloves</li> <li>leg protection</li> </ul> <h2 id="complications">Complications of wounds, cuts and grazes</h2> <p>Wounds can cause some complications, such as:</p> <ul> <li>scabbing and scaring</li> <li>infections</li> </ul> <h3>Scabbing and scarring</h3> <p>As your wound heals it may form a scab. Avoid picking the crust as this can cause scarring and infection — it will fall off by itself.</p> <p>All wounds can scar. Scars look red and thick at first but will fade to become thin and white over time.</p> <p>Sometimes a scar will be thick and raised. If you develop any scarring that bothers you, see your doctor. They may refer you to a dermatologist (a doctor who specialises in treating skin issues).</p> <h3>Infections</h3> <p>You should seek medical attention immediately if you have a wound and are showing any signs of infection. These may include:</p> <ul> <li>spreading redness or swelling around the wound</li> <li>you develop a <a href="/fever">temperature</a></li> <li>if the wound is not healing after about 5 days</li> <li>if your wound starts oozing pus</li> </ul> <p>Tetanus is a potentially fatal infection that can infect most types of wounds, especially:</p> <ul> <li>those contaminated with dirt or faeces (poo)</li> <li>puncture wounds</li> <li>those caused by animal bites</li> </ul> <p>Keeping up to date with your tetanus immunisation is the best way to avoid getting tetanus.</p> <h2 id="resources">Resources and support</h2> <p>You can call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</p></div> <footer class="main_content-article-text-footer"> <div> <h4>Source<span>s</span>:</h4> <span> <a href="https://clinicalexcellence.qld.gov.au" target="_blank" title="Queensland Health Clinical Excellence Division">Queensland Health Clinical Excellence Division</a> <em>(Wound care)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au" target="_blank" title="Agency of Clinical Innovation">Agency of Clinical Innovation</a> <em>(Skin cuts and Scrapes)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://www.rch.org.au/" target="_blank" title="The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne">The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne</a> <em>(Cuts, grazes and lacerations)<span></span></em>, <a href="https://tgldcdp.tg.org.au" target="_blank" title="Abrasions">Abrasions</a> <em>(Overview of abrasions)<span></span></em> </span> </div> </footer> <p>Learn more here about the <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content">development and quality assurance of healthdirect content</a>.</p> <p>Last reviewed: February 2024</p> <div class="main_content-back-to-top"><a href="#backToTop"><i class="dor-icon_caret-up"></i><br><span class="tablet-up__inline">Back To </span>Top</a></a></div> </main>  <section class="main_content-links print-hidden"> <section class="related-concept-section"> <h2>Search our site for</h2> <ul> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Skin injuries" title="Search results for:Skin injuries">Skin injuries</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/First Aid" title="Search results for:First Aid">First Aid</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Tetanus" title="Search results for:Tetanus">Tetanus</a> </li> </ul> </section> </section>  <section class="main_content-search"> <header> <h2>Need more information?</h2> <p>These trusted information partners have more on this topic.</p> </header> <div class="main_content-general-text"> <div> <div class="main_content-search-results-partners"> <nav class="dor-tabs__2 veyron-search-tabs" role="tablist"> <label class="dor-tabs_item" role="tab" aria-controls="searchGeneralResults" aria-selected="true"> <input type="radio" checked name="tab"> <div class="dor-tabs_item-btn veyron-search-tab-btn">General search results</div> </label> <label class="dor-tabs_item" role="tab" aria-controls="searchProfessionalResults" aria-selected="false"> <input type="radio" name="tab"> <div class="dor-tabs_item-btn veyron-search-tab-btn">Results for medical professionals</div> </label> </nav> <section id="searchGeneralResults" data-total-records="379"> <p>Top results</p> <a href="https://mydr.com.au/pharmacy-care/cuts-and-abrasions/" data-partner-url="partners/mydr" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|c1bf6e05-e910-41e4-bd64-c9c425860ed2"> <h3>Cuts and abrasions - myDr.com.au</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Most cuts and abrasions can be treated simply. Skin abrasions and blisters usually result from rubbing or friction. Find out what products are available for cuts and abrasions.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on MyDoctor website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="MyDoctor" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/mydoctor-new_logo-1f39cc.png"> </a> <a href="https://farmerhealth.org.au/2014/03/20/wound-care" data-partner-url="partners/national-centre-for-farmer-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|23167670-49c4-4d15-927c-eb4a8e1aa305"> <h3>Wound care | National Centre for Farmer Health</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Skin wounds need to be cleaned and dressed. Contrary to many myths, wounds that are kept moist heal better than those exposed to the air. Read more...</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on National Centre for Farmer Health website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="National Centre for Farmer Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/farmerhealth-logo-a8d0a3.png"> </a> <a href="https://mydr.com.au/skin-hair/wound-care/" data-partner-url="partners/mydr" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|2e26fb53-9f6d-43a2-b5af-c5a8d440da78"> <h3>Wound care - myDr.com.au</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Different types of wounds require different types of care, depending on whether they have resulted from surgery, punctures, burns, tears or ulcers.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on MyDoctor website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="MyDoctor" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/mydoctor-new_logo-1f39cc.png"> </a> <a href="https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/abrasions" data-partner-url="partners/raisingchildren.net.au" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|0bfc1ab1-df97-4663-9826-61eea858dcc5"> <h3>Abrasions & cuts: children & teenagers | Raising Children Network</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Children often get abrasions and cuts. You can treat most minor abrasions at home with a first aid kit. Severe abrasions might need medical attention.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on raisingchildren.net.au website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="raisingchildren.net.au" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/raising-children_logo-f6777f.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/skin-cuts-and-abrasions" data-partner-url="partners/better-health-channel" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|114d5cd1-0eb4-4e04-8f4b-e3600d742aa0"> <h3>Skin cuts and abrasions - Better Health Channel</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>The body begins repairing a wound immediately and the process may continue for days, weeks, months or even years.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Better Health Channel website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Better Health Channel" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/bhc-rectangle-image-e99950.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/U_Z/Wounds" data-partner-url="partners/wa-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|c996583d-4949-485f-aa47-2f085e684000"> <h3>Wounds</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Taking care of wounds</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on WA Health website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="WA Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/WA_health_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://farmerhealth.org.au/2014/03/19/bleeding" data-partner-url="partners/national-centre-for-farmer-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|1d3b6e9c-8746-4c9c-a944-e4c03ce52c7d"> <h3>Bleeding | National Centre for Farmer Health</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Bleeding may present as minor bleeding from small cuts, abrasions and nosebleeds or severe externally or internally from trauma. Bleeding always requires immediate attention and first aid. Always call triple zero (000) in an emergency.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on National Centre for Farmer Health website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="National Centre for Farmer Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/farmerhealth-logo-a8d0a3.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/wounds-how-to-care-for-them" data-partner-url="partners/better-health-channel" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|74428706-4a95-42b1-879d-9cb7bb7b48e4"> <h3>Wounds - how to care for them - Better Health Channel</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Chronic wounds are more likely to heal if they are treated with moist rather than dry dressings.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Better Health Channel website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Better Health Channel" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/bhc-rectangle-image-e99950.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/U_Z/Wounds-first-aid" data-partner-url="partners/wa-health" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|67bc0367-6361-4c42-b09b-c3e3ed54c3b4"> <h3>Wounds first aid</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Applying appropriate first aid to a wound can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of infection.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on WA Health website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="WA Health" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/WA_health_logo.png"> </a> <a href="https://woundsaustralia.org/#whatisawound?" data-partner-url="partners/wounds-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|d16e70b6-401e-46e8-9244-b3d9c3798c0d"> <h3>What is a wound?</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>A wound is any break or tear in the skin resulting from an accident, surgery, a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, or an underlying condition like diabetes.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> <i id="read-more">Read more on Wounds Australia website</i></p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Wounds Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/wa_colour_logo-d3994e.png"> </a> <section class="main_content-search-show-more "> <button class="main_content-search-show-more-btn" title="Show more search results" rel="nofollow">Show more</button> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-show-more-loading"></i> </section> </section> <section id="searchProfessionalResults" class="hidden" data-total-records="67"> <p>Top results</p> <a href="https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/an-update-on-wound-management.html" data-partner-url="partners/australian-prescriber" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|17d6964b-77a7-4ec2-9833-63d8e85b6c6e"> <h3>An update on wound management - Australian Prescriber</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Optimal wound management involves addressing both the cause of the wound, and the use of dressings or bandages.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Prescriber website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Prescriber" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/australian-prescriber_2023_logo-5f8e5b.png"> </a> <a href="https://pathologytestsexplained.org.au/ptests-pro.php?q=Bacterial+wound+culture" data-partner-url="partners/pathology-tests-explained" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|7afa82db-f102-458c-8968-dc7ffd3a766f"> <h3>Bacterial wound culture | Pathology Tests Explained</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>A bacterial wound culture is a test that is used to detect and identify pathogenic bacteria in a potentially infected wound. Wounds may be superficial breaks</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Pathology Tests Explained website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Pathology Tests Explained" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ptex-vertical-orientation-colored-600x275px-01-0ae8ba.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/pressure-injuries-and-ulcerations" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|8d8778b6-6e6a-476d-9ef9-109ca78c3479"> <h3>Wound Types: Pressure Injuries and Ulcerations | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Identifying the wound type, setting a clear aim for management and then selecting a product or device remains the mainstay of wound management. There are, of course, many other factors to be considered when addressing patients with wounds, and reviewing a wound in isolation from these other factors may lead to poor healing progress.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/skin-tears" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|9df20c6c-65ff-4d91-94d0-bee9a7d27fb4"> <h3>Skin Tear Prevention and Management | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Despite seeming like minor injuries, skin tears can be complex wounds with the potential to significantly affect a patient’s health and cause chronic discomfort. Skin tears are often misdiagnosed and underreported, and in many cases are preventable.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.cochrane.org/CD009726/WOUNDS_antibiotic-therapy-for-the-treatment-of-methicillin-resistant-staphylococcus-aureus-mrsa-infections-in-people-with-surgical-wounds" data-partner-url="partners/cochrane-australia" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|6cbc0856-fe54-4ef7-9825-8fa80fce1deb"> <h3>Antibiotic therapy for the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in people with surgical wounds | Cochrane</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Authors' conclusions: There is currently no evidence to recommend any specific antibiotic in the treatment of MRSA SSIs</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Cochrane Australia website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Cochrane Australia" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/cochrane_australia_stacked_rgb-15fbd4.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/buruli-ulcer" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|3889320c-c514-4462-80fc-482f69bc4698"> <h3>Buruli Ulcer: A ‘Flesh-Eating’ Infection | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Cases of the ‘flesh-eating’ Buruli ulcer have increased significantly in Victoria over recent years. Until 2015 there were less than 100 cases annually; however, since 2017, there have now been between 200 and 340 cases every year. But what exactly is this illness, why is it described as ‘flesh-eating’ and is it a cause for concern?</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2009/november/mammalian-bites" data-partner-url="partners/racgp-the-royal-australian-college-of-general-practitioners" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|6dfff9b6-a1b3-40e2-8482-6a65d5b6f993"> <h3>Management of mammalian bites</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Reproduced with permission from The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on RACGP - The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="RACGP - The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/racgp_master_rgb-f5ccb3.png"> </a> <a href="https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/management-of-bite-injuries.html" data-partner-url="partners/australian-prescriber" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|d8b2fcb8-97fe-40b8-a7b1-31f8db7a02ef"> <h3>Management of bite injuries - Australian Prescriber</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p></p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Australian Prescriber website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Australian Prescriber" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/australian-prescriber_2023_logo-5f8e5b.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/sabsi" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|6c1e2dbe-a8f2-4b34-88db-e832b0406bf2"> <h3>Staphylococcus Aureus Bloodstream Infection (SABSI) | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Staphylococcus aureus (also known as S. aureus or golden staph) is one of around 40 species of Staphylococcus bacteria. S. aureus commonly inhabit the inside of the nose as well as the skin, where they are usually harmless and unnoticeable. However, if they are able to enter the bloodstream, they may multiply and cause Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection (SABSI).</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <a href="https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/drug-and-alcohol-withdrawal" data-partner-url="partners/ausmed-education" class="main_content-search-tile" target="_blank" data-guid="ECM001|b4ad88a4-0d65-48cf-b9e6-7bd47beafcaa"> <h3>Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal | Ausmed</h3> <div class="main_content-search-tile-intro"> <p>Withdrawal is the process of cutting out or cutting back on alcohol or drugs after a period of prolonged or excessive use. This can lead to a variety of symptoms. A common example of withdrawal is feeling a headache slowly develop when you forgo your morning coffee.</p> </div> <p class="main_content-search-tile-read-more"><i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-tile-read-more-icon"></i> Read more on Ausmed Education website</p> <img class="main_content-search-tile-logo" alt="Ausmed Education" src="https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/ausmed-new-logo-872e67.png"> </a> <section class="main_content-search-show-more "> <button class="main_content-search-show-more-btn" title="Show more search results" rel="nofollow">Show more</button> <i aria-hidden="true" class="main_content-search-show-more-loading"></i> </section> </section> </div> </div> </div> <div class="partner-popup-content hidden"> <header class="dor-modal_body-header"><h2>Disclaimer</h2></header> <div class="dor-modal_body-main veyron-global-popup-body-main"> <div class="dor-modal_body-main-content"> <p>Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering.</p> </div> </div> <footer class="dor-modal_body-footer"> <a target="_blank" class="main-action main-action__link" role="button"><button class="dor-modal_body-footer-action">OK</button></a> </footer> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> HDW.partnerResults = JSON.parse('{\"localContentConfig\":{\"PBB\":{\"logo\":\"PBB_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au\/\",\"name\":\"Pregnancy, Birth & Baby\"},\"MHC\":{\"logo\":\"MHC_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.mindhealthconnect.org.au\/\",\"name\":\"mindhealthconnect\"},\"HIN\":{\"logo\":\"healthdirect_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.healthdirect.gov.au\/\",\"name\":\"healthdirect\"},\"HCW\":{\"logo\":\"healthdirect_logo.png\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/about.healthdirect.gov.au\/\",\"name\":\"healthdirect\"}}}') initArticleSearchResults(JSON.parse('{\"general\":\"\/api\/search\/content\/general?wt=json&f.partner.facet.limit=-1&f.partner.facet.sort=count&rows=10&start=0&channel=HIN&q=(%22wound%20care%22%20OR%20wounds%20OR%20abrasions%20OR%20grazes)%20NOT%20caesarean&fq=document_channel%3A(%22HIN%22%20OR%20%22PBB%22%20OR%20%22MHC%22%20OR%20%22HCW%22)&fq=!canonical_channel%3A%22HIN%22&fq=(canonical_channel%3A%5B*%20TO%20*%5D%20OR%20content_type%3A%22hdaptn%3ApartnerContent%22)&fq=audience_en%3A(%22Consumers%22%20OR%20%22Carers%22)\",\"professional\":\"\/api\/search\/content\/keyword?wt=json&f.partner.facet.limit=-1&f.partner.facet.sort=count&rows=10&start=0&channel=HIN&q=(%22wound%20care%22%20OR%20wounds%20OR%20abrasions%20OR%20grazes)%20NOT%20caesarean&fq=!partner%3A%22healthdirect%22&fq=audience_en%3A%22Health%20Professionals%22\"}')); </script> </section> </div> <aside class="main_content-col-right print-hidden"> <div class="tablet-up"> <section class="related-concept-section"> <h2>Search our site for</h2> <ul> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Skin injuries" title="Search results for:Skin injuries">Skin injuries</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/First Aid" title="Search results for:First Aid">First Aid</a> </li> <li> <a class="dor-button__pill-btn" href="/search-results/Tetanus" title="Search results for:Tetanus">Tetanus</a> </li> </ul> </section> <section class="widget-sym" data-ng-show="symptom" data-semantic-links="semanticLinks" layout="sidebar"> <h2>Symptom checker</h2> <p><strong>Worried about a cut?</strong></p><p>Select a symptom, answer some questions, get advice.</p> <a class="widget-sym-btn" href="/symptom-checker/tool?symptom=WOUN" title="Check symptoms">Start Your Symptom Check</a> </section> <section class="hsf-panel-node-sidebar-mode veyron-search-by-service-panel "> <form data-old-class="hsf-form" name="serviceFinderForm" novalidate=""> <fieldset class="hsf-form_services"> <legend class="sr-only">service category</legend> <h2>Find a health service</h2> <section class="dor-form_error-area veyron-hsf-panel-error-list hidden" id="hadLocationErrors"> <ul> <li>Please enter a suburb or postcode of your location and select from the list.</li> <li>Unable to find your location. 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