Wound Care Signs and Symptoms

• Scrapes and abrasions are superficial (on the surface). The deeper skin layers are intact, and bleeding is more of a slow ooze. They are usually caused by friction or rubbing against an abrasive surface.
  
  
• Lacerations (cuts) go through all layers of the skin and into the fat or deeper tissues. Bleeding may be more brisk or severe. Severe blows by a blunt object, falls against a hard surface, or contact with a sharp object are the most common causes of lacerations.
  
  
• Puncture wounds are generally caused by a sharp pointed object entering the skin. Most common examples are stepping on a nail, getting stuck with a needle or a tack, or being stabbed with a knife. Bleeding is usually minimal, and the wound may be barely noticeable.
  
  
• Human bites and animal bites can be puncture wounds, lacerations, or a combination of both. These wounds are always contaminated by saliva and require extra care.