How to Take Care of a Knife Injury in the Kitchen

Getting cut by a knife in the kitchen happens a lot. In fact, about 1.1 million people go to emergency rooms each year in the U.S. because of knife cuts, especially while cooking. Knowing how to take care of a knife injury can help make the cut less serious and stop germs from causing infections. Here's a simple guide on what to do if you get a knife injury.

What to Do Right Away

1. Check the Cut:

   • Look at how bad the cut is. Notice how much it’s bleeding and if you can see deep into the skin. If it’s a small cut, you can usually fix it at home. But if it’s deep, or you see muscle or fat, go see a doctor.

2. Stop the Bleeding:

   • Press a clean cloth or bandage against the cut. Keep pressing firmly for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the bleeding stop. If blood soaks through, don’t take off the first cloth. Just add another one on top.

3. Clean the Wound:

   • Once the bleeding slows down, gently wash the cut with soap and running water for about 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol right now as they can irritate the skin.

Dressing the Cut

1. Put on Antibiotic Ointment:

   • After cleaning the cut, use a thin layer of antibiotic ointment. This can help stop infections from happening and could lower your chances of getting one by about 50%.

2. Cover it Up:

   • Use a clean bandage or gauze to cover the cut. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight, so it doesn’t cut off blood flow. Change the bandage every day or if it gets wet or dirty.

3. Look for Signs of Infection:

   • Watch for signs like more redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the cut. A fever can also be a bad sign. If you see any of these symptoms, get medical help right away.

Long-Term Care

1. Get Stitches if Needed:

   • If the cut is deeper than about 1/4 inch or won’t stop bleeding after you apply pressure, you might need stitches. Try to see a doctor within 6 hours if this happens.

2. Check Your Tetanus Shot:

   • Make sure your tetanus vaccination is up to date. Tetanus can be a problem with cuts, especially if the knife was dirty. The CDC says adults should get a booster shot every 10 years.

3. Pain Relief:

   • You can take pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with pain and swelling. Always follow the dosage on the package.

By following these steps, you can take care of a knife injury and lower the chance of problems. Remember, for serious cuts or if you are not sure what to do, always get help from a medical professional. Keeping your kitchen clean and safe can also help prevent cuts from happening in the first place.