Minor pediatric injuries

Injuries are a common source of childhood morbidity and mortality. The initial evaluation should follow in a sequential fashion to determine the extent of injuries. Most minor injuries can be treated safely and cost-effectively in an office setting. The principles of wound care include adequate hemostasis, tissue debridement, removal of imbedded foreign bodies, and appropriate closure or coverage of the wound to optimize healing. Appropriate use of antibiotics, tetanus prophylaxis, and rabies immunization will minimize complications. With proper selection and treatment, the outcome of children with minor injuries should be excellent.