Extensive grazes

A graze is when the outer layer of skin is scraped or worn off. The wound can contain foreign bodies such as dirt, wood, glass, gravel etc. that must be removed before healing will occur.

Extensive grazes are usually very bloody, painful and debilitating wounds which require medical attention.

Management

• Stop the bleeding (wear protective gloves).
• Remove from the play area.
• Clean the wound by washing with running water, normal saline or diluted antiseptic. REFER TO A DOCTOR if foreign objects can't be removed this way, to ensure infection does not occur.
• Apply a non-adhesive bandage.
• Apply a bandage to hold in place if required.

Refer to a Doctor

• Large grazes.
• Any graze with an object you cannot / should not remove.
• Old grazes which are not healing.

Considerations

• Infection is very common following an extensive graze, therefore watch the athlete closely for signs and symptoms of infection.
• You should not attempt to remove embedded objects other than those which wash off under water - a doctor will attend to this.