Emergency: Call 112 if bleeding is severe, spurting, or does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure.
Cuts, scrapes, and wounds are a daily reality in most Indian homes. Knowing how to correctly stop bleeding and clean a wound can prevent serious infection and complications. Most minor bleeding stops quickly with the right technique.
Step-by-Step: How to Stop Bleeding
Follow these steps in order
1
Protect yourself
Wear disposable gloves or use a plastic bag to protect yourself from blood before treating the wound.
2
Apply firm, direct pressure
Place a clean cloth, gauze pad, or the cleanest material available directly on the wound. Press firmly and continuously. Do not lift the cloth to check — this disrupts clotting.
3
Maintain pressure for at least 10 minutes
Keep pressing without lifting for a full 10 minutes. Most minor bleeding stops within this time.
4
If blood soaks through — add more on top
Do not remove the first cloth. Place additional gauze on top and continue pressing.
5
Elevate if possible
Raise the injured area above the level of the heart to reduce blood flow and slow bleeding.
6
Secure with a bandage
Once bleeding slows, secure the dressing firmly but not so tight as to cause numbness.
Cleaning the Wound
Once bleeding is controlled:
- Rinse under clean running water for 5–10 minutes
- Gently remove visible dirt with clean tweezers if needed
- Apply antiseptic solution (diluted Dettol or povidone-iodine)
- Cover with a sterile dressing
- Change dressing daily or when wet
Do not use cotton wool directly on a wound — fibres stick to the wound. Use gauze or a smooth clean cloth.
When Are Stitches Needed?
- Wound is deeper than 0.5cm or edges are gaping
- Wound is longer than 2cm
- Bleeding does not stop after 15–20 minutes
- Wound is on the face, over a joint, or on the hands
- You can see fatty tissue or muscle
- Cut was caused by a dirty or rusty object
If stitches may be needed, go to a clinic within 6 hours.
Signs of Infection
- Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling
- Yellow or green pus
- Fever above 38°C
- Red streaks spreading from wound
- Increasing rather than improving pain
Tetanus
If the wound was caused by a dirty or rusty object, check your tetanus vaccination. If not vaccinated in the last 5 years, get a booster within 24–48 hours.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for your specific situation. Last reviewed: February 2026. Read our full Medical Disclaimer.