ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support. 
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Eye Injury: First Aid for Minor Cuts

Top of the page

Eye Injury: First Aid for Minor Cuts

Overview

Here are steps to take to clean a minor cut near the eye.

  1. Stop the bleeding
    • Wear medical gloves, or if gloves are not available, use a clean cloth or plastic bag or cleanest material available.
    • Apply light pressure to a very minor skin cut near the eye to stop the bleeding.

    Do not apply any pressure to the eyeball.

  2. Clean the cut.
    • Wash your hands and wear gloves if they are available.
    • Wash the cut under running tap water and use a washcloth to remove all the dirt, debris, and bacteria from the wound.
  3. Bandage the cut.
    • Use a sterile bandage if you have one.
    • If you don't have one, use a clean bandage or cloth.
    • Don't use fluffy cotton bandages around the eye. They could come apart and stick to the eye.
  4. Decide if more care is needed.
    • If the cut is more than very minor or if you are concerned, have the cut evaluated by a health professional.
    • A small cut on the inner eyelid may damage tear ducts and should be evaluated.

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Your Partner in Health.

People are at the heart of great health care. That's why we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care tailored to the communities we serve. 


Together with our community partners and patients, we're building a stronger, healthier future for all Idahoans.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Meridian (208) 706-5000