If you do not have access to running water, then you can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Washing your hands with water is best, but using hand sanitizer is better than nothing. If you are disinfecting someone else’s wound, then you may also want to put on a pair of clean, disposable vinyl or latex gloves. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

If you can’t raise the wound, apply pressure to a pressure point (an artery above the injury) on the wrist, bicep, at the top of the thigh, or behind the knee. [3] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure and elevation, seek medical assistance. Call emergency services if you can’t get transportation to the emergency room. [4] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source

Alternatively, you could clean the wound with salt water and a piece of gauze. Dip the gauze in the salt water and gently blot the wound with it. [6] X Research source If any dirt or debris is in the wound, try to remove it with a pair of sterilized tweezers that have been cleaned with rubbing alcohol. Do not use your fingers. Seek medical help if any dirt, debris, or other object is too deep for you to reach or if the wound is deep and has an object inside of it. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Check the label first to ensure that you are not allergic to the ingredients in the ointment. The label should list the ingredients and potential allergens.

If you see any of these signs or if the wound is not healing, seek medical help. You should also contact your doctor if you feel pain (beyond minor stinging) or warmth around the wound. [14] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Make sure that you have all of your supplies ready on a clean surface before you remove the old dressing. [17] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source

Avoid using any antibacterial soaps or topical treatments. These could slow down the healing process and put you at risk for infection. [18] X Research source