As a parent, few things are more alarming than seeing your child get hurt. Lacerations, or deep cuts in the skin, can be particularly distressing. Responding promptly and effectively can make a difference in your child’s recovery. This guide will walk you through what paediatric lacerations are and what steps to take to care for them.
What is paediatric laceration?
A paediatric laceration is a cut or tear in a child’s skin, often caused by a sharp object or rough surface such as a piece of glass or a metal edge during a fall.
These injuries can range from minor cuts that require little more than a bandage to deeper wounds that may need medical attention, including stitches or surgical intervention.
Initial care
When your child experiences a laceration, it’s essential to act quickly to minimise complications such as infection and to promote healing. Here are the immediate steps to take:
Clean the wound
The first step in managing a paediatric laceration is to clean the wound thoroughly. Cleaning helps to remove any debris and reduces the risk of infection. Clean the wound following these steps:
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent the introduction of bacteria when handling the wound.
- Rinse with water: Hold the wound under cool, running water for several minutes. Avoid using strong sprays, which could damage the tissue further.
- Gentle cleansing: Use mild soap around the wound area, but avoid getting soap directly into the cut, as this can irritate. Pat dry with a clean cloth.
Stop the bleeding
Once the wound is clean, the next priority is to stop the bleeding:
- Apply pressure: Use a clean cloth to firmly press on the wound. Hold the pressure steady for 5 to 10 minutes without checking too frequently, as this can disrupt clot formation.
- Elevate the injured area: If the cut is on a limb, elevate it above the heart level to reduce blood flow to the area and help slow bleeding.
If the bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes of pressure, or if the blood is spurting, seek medical attention immediately.
Protect and monitor
After the initial care, protect the wound and monitor it closely for any signs of complications.
Bandage the wound
Once the bleeding has stopped, bandage the wound to shield it from dirt and bacteria. Use an adhesive bandage for small cuts, a sterile gauze pad, and medical tape for more extensive lacerations. Make sure the bandage is secure but not so tight that it restricts blood flow.
Keep dry
Ensure the wound stays dry for the first 24-48 hours to promote healing. Avoid soaking the wound in water during this time, which means no swimming or long baths. After this period, you can gently clean the area and replace the bandage if necessary.
Healing and prevention
Proper care of paediatric lacerations does not end after the initial treatment. Promoting healing and preventing complications is key to your child’s recovery.
Monitor for infection
Keep a close eye on the wound for signs of infection, such as:
- Increased redness or swelling around the wound.
- Warmth to the touch.
- Pus or drainage.
- Persistent pain or tenderness.
- Fever.
If you notice any of these signs, contact your paediatrician for advice.
Healthy diet
A nutritious diet is important for your child’s recovery. Foods with vitamins A and C, zinc, and protein are helpful for wound healing.
Safety tips
While the wound is healing, taking additional precautions can prevent it from worsening and promote recovery.
Avoid physical activity
Encourage your child to avoid strenuous activities and sports that could strain the wound or cause the bandage to come off. Physical exertion can reopen the wound, delay healing, and increase the risk of infection.
Protect from sun
Exposure to the sun can cause a healing wound to become discoloured and lead to scarring. When outdoors, keep the wound covered or apply sunscreen to the area if it is healed enough to be exposed.
Follow-up care
Even after the wound appears to heal well, follow-up care is important to ensure complete recovery and prevent complications.
Follow medical advice
If your child’s laceration requires medical attention, such as stitches or staples, follow the doctor’s instructions carefully. These may include keeping the wound clean, dry, and covered and applying any prescribed ointments.
Regular check-ups
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to have the wound checked by a plastic surgeon. They will assess the healing process, remove any stitches if needed, and provide further guidance on care.
When to see a doctor
While many minor paediatric lacerations can be managed at home, there are certain situations where professional medical care is necessary. You should seek immediate medical attention if:
- The wound is deep, long, or has jagged edges.
- The bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure.
- There is a foreign object stuck in the wound.
- The cut is on the face, especially if it might cause scarring.
- Signs of infection develop.
Pediatric laceration treatment in Singapore
Following the above steps and knowing when to seek professional help can ensure your child receives the best possible care after a laceration injury.
At Argent Plastic Surgery, we offer specialised treatment for paediatric lacerations in Singapore. Our team understands that children’s skin is more delicate than adults’ and requires varying treatment approaches. We provide comprehensive wound care to ensure your child heals optimally with minimal scarring.