First Aid for SURGEONFISH CUTS

For minor cuts, gently pull the edges of the skin open and remove any embedded material either by rinsing or using tweezers. Then scrub directly inside the cut with clean gauze or a cloth soaked in clean, fresh water. Press on the wound to stop bleeding. If bleeding persists, or the edges of the wound are jagged or gaping, the victim likely needs stitches. Taping a cut shut is often an appropriate alternative, but may leave a more visible scar than suturing. For more details on wound care, see Staph, Strep and General Wound Care. No studies exist on treating surgeonfish cuts, but hot water soaks relieve pain in ray and scorpionfish stings. For pain control, try soaking the wound in nonscalding hot water for 30 to 90 minutes. (Victims in pain may not be able to tell if water is too hot. Someone else should test the water temperature on their own hand first.) If pain worsens, redness and swelling increase, or a digit won't move normally after a surgeonfish cut, see a doctor.