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Superficial Wound - Infants

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

What it is exactly?

These are often minor injuries caused by friction that damages the skin. For example, scrapes (abrasions, scratches, or tears affecting the top layer of the skin.

What you can do at home

What to do
  • Please wash your hands before and after touching your child’s wound.
  • If the wound is bleeding heavily, apply pressure using a clean compress or cloth for 15 minutes.
  • Clean the wound with water and mild soap, or with a saline solution purchased at a pharmacy or made at home:
    • 240 mL (1 cup or 8 ounces) of drinkable or boiled water that has been cooled;
    • 2.5 mL (1/2 teaspoon) of salt.
  • If there is a loose piece of skin, gently place it back over the wound.
  • Cover the wound with a bandage until it heals. Change the bandage once a day or whenever it becomes dirty.

When to seek medical attention

If your child have any of these signs:
  • there is something stuck in your child’s wound that cannot be removed:
    • splinter or thorn;
    • sand, dust, metal, glass, or plastic;
    • feeling that something is still under the skin.
  • the wound does not seem to be healing or is getting larger;
  • the wound becomes increasingly painful, even after 3 days;
  • the area around the wound is red or warm, even after 3 days;
  • pus (yellow or green fluid) is coming out of the wound. 

Call 811, option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, nurse practitioner).

When to go to the hospital immediately

When your child has a fever, chills, or is shaking.
The area around the wound quickly becomes red and warm (within a few hours).
Your child’s heart is beating very fast.
Your child cries intensely and cannot be soothed despite your efforts.
Your child is experiencing severe pain that does not go away.
The wound continues to bleed despite 15 minutes of pressure.

Need help?

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

Consult a pharmacist for advice on medications or treatment.

Book an appointment on Clic Santé if vaccination is needed. 

Book an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.

If you do not have a family doctor, visit Primary Care Access Point (GAP) or dial 811, option 3.

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