The Catholic University of America

I cut myself.

Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. Apply direct pressure to the area with a clean cloth. Elevate the injured area above the level of your heart. If the bleeding stops spontaneously, apply anti-bacterial ointment if available and apply a band-aid or other dressing if necessary. Call Student Health Services if the bleeding does not stop within 5 minutes or if the area is large or has jagged edges, or if there has been a puncture wound. Sutures need to be placed within 12 hours of injury. A tetanus booster is required every 5 to 10 years, depending on the extent of the injury.