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A Cut (laceration) - Infants

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 10–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

A laceration or cut is an open skin wound. Your child could get a cut from a fall or bump, or from touching a sharp object. A cut may bleed and is sometimes painful.

What you can do at home

What to do
  • Before touching your child’s cut, wash your hands with soap and water. 
  • If the cut is bleeding, press on it for a few minutes with a clean cloth or bandage. 
  • If the cut is bleeding heavily or you see the blood spurting, lift your child’s injured arm or leg above the level of their heart. 
  • Once the bleeding diminishes, gently clean the cut with tap water and mild unscented soap for a few minutes.  
  • Once the bleeding has stopped, apply a bandage to the wound. Apply a bandage and change it once a day or when it gets dirty. 
  • If your child is in pain, follow your pharmacy’s advice. You can give them acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) if there are no contraindications. Note: Ibuprofen should not be given to children under 6 months of age.  

When to seek medical attention

If your child have any of these signs:
  • the cut is deep or large;  
  • something is stuck in the cut; 
  • your child has not received a tetanus vaccination or it is out of date;  
  • it continues to bleed, even when applying pressure;  
  • your child is still in pain, despite medication; 
  • the wound smells bad;  
  • the skin around the wound becomes red, swollen, or hot, or pus (yellow or green liquid) appears; 
  • your child has a fever. 

Call 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, or nurse practitioner), if any of the signs listed above apply.

When to go to the hospital right away

The cut is bleeding profusely.
The injured body part no longer moves.
Your child complains of numbness, weakness, or a loss of feeling around the cut.

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.  

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.  

Make an appointment on Clic Santé if your child needs a vaccination. 

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.  

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.  

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