Treating Bloody Wounds

This list will help you remember the basics for treating any minor cuts or scrapes. Remember, every coach is responsible for learning how to treat minor injuries.

For cuts and scrapes

  1. Put on a pair of disposable surgical gloves or some other effective barrier.
  2. Stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean dressing to the wound and elevating it.
  3. Cleanse the wound with water and soap once the bleeding is controlled.
  4. Protect the wound with sterile gauze or a bandage strip.
  5. Dispose of the gloves.

For bloody noses

  1. Have the athlete sit and lean forward.
  2. Pinch the athlete’s nostrils shut.
Coaching Football Technical and Tactical Skills by ASEP, 2006, Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
Organizations and agencies may not photocopy any material for professional or organizational use or distribution.