What is the first step you should take if you cut yourself?

• A. Stop what you are doing.
• B. Wash hands.
• C. Stop what you are doing, wash hands, apply first aid, and tell a teacher.
• D. Apply ointment and resume activity.

Answer: (C)

When you cut yourself, the priority is to prevent infection and get proper care as soon as possible. The best approach is to stop what you’re doing, wash your hands, apply first aid, and tell a teacher. Stopping helps you focus on the wound and prevents further injury. Washing your hands and cleaning the wound reduces bacteria that could cause infection. Applying first aid means cleaning the wound with clean water, protecting it with a clean bandage, and controlling any bleeding. Telling a teacher brings adult oversight, ensures you receive appropriate care, and helps the incident be properly addressed at school. Stopping alone misses treating the wound; washing hands alone doesn’t address the cut; applying ointment and resuming activity can trap dirt and worsen the injury. If bleeding is heavy or won’t stop, seek help right away.