Benzoin along the edges of the cut helps adherence. Wounds which are deep, dirty, or possibly containing a foreign body need vigorous irrigation with normal saline and cleansing with an antimicrobial. Povidone-iodine is cytotoxic and can be used to cleanse intact skin around the cut but never directly on the wound. Leaving a wound open limits the risk of infection when a foreign object cannot be removed and must be referred to a physician. Bites and puncture wounds are usually not sutured , but a limited number of sutures are applied if the wound is large and gaping.
Antibiotic treatment is controversial.
Puncture wounds to the feet through rubber soles pose a risk for Pseudomonas infection and should be assessed 48 hours after injury. Tetanus prophylaxis is administered if the last dose was over 5 years prior or questionable. They should also assure that parents have detailed written information to take to the health care provider if referred, and monitor wounds for healing and early signs of infection.