First aid advice differs depending on the type of injury. You should also keep in mind that you may need to refer more serious injuries.

MINOR CUTS AND GRAZES¹

• Stop any bleeding by applying pressure and elevating the wound
• Clean wound under running tap
• Pat dry with a non-fluffy towel
• Protect the wound with a sterile dressing or plaster
• If the wound bleeds through the dressing apply another one on top rather than removing the original
• Take OTC painkillers (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) if the wound is painful

When to refer:

• If bleeding does not stop
• If there is an object in the wound
• If signs of infection are present
• If the wound is caused by human contact, an animal bite or dirty object
• If they experience persistent significant loss of sensation near the wound

MINOR BURNS AND SCALDS²

• Cool the burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes
• If needed, gently remove any jewellery or watches from the area before swelling starts
• Cover the area loosely with a layer of cling film. Do not use a fluffy pad as this will stick to the burn
• Take OTC painkillers (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) if the burn is painful

When to refer:

• Severe burns
• Burns to face, mouth or throat
• Anyone with severe pain
• Anyone with a medical condition such as diabetes
• All chemical and electrical burns
• People at greater risk from the effects of burns (e.g. children under 5 years and pregnant women)

BLISTERS³

• Never pierce unbroken skin
• Cover with sterile adhesive dressing or plaster
• Use soft dressing to pad blisters on feet – special plasters are also available

When to refer:

• If caused by a burn or scald
• If the skin looks infected (e.g. the blister is filled with green or yellow pus)
• Blisters that keep coming back
• The customer has an underlying medical condition