How to Treat a Paper Cut

A small paper cut can be a big nuisance. Paper cuts sting like crazy, and they always seem to occur in a place that will be bumped or touched throughout the day. Here are some tips on how to treat a paper cut.

Instructions

1. Wash the affected area with soap and water immediately. This may sound overly cautious for a paper cut, but, albeit in rare cases paper, cuts have led to staph infections.

2. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.

3. Rub some antibiotic ointment into the affected area. This will reduce the swelling and redness that make paper cuts so irritating.

4. Cover the affected area with a small adhesive bandage. This will prevent infection and protect the sore spot from further agitation.

5. Keep the area clean and dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay focused when shuffling papers, stuffing envelopes, etc. Paper results often result from absentmindedness.

• Wear finger protection when flipping through pages, to prevent paper cuts.

• Watch for signs of infection including redness and swelling that do not subside after a day or two, excessive pain and fever. If basic first aid does nothing to heal the cut, see your doctor.