A recent trip to the ER for a minor would taught me a few things. Betadine is used only before an incision is made or an IV is used. Unless the wound is already infected, nothing is used to clense the would but saline solution. The ER nurses seem to think that Neosporin will reduce scarring, but they don't make any claims to its use as an antiseptic. And the one that surprised me was : Only cover the wound if it is prone to getting contaminated. It's OK to have those grusome stitches showing so long as you're not outside digging ditches or something. The more time it spends exposed (but cleansed with saline) the faster and better it will heal. Please note that this comes from the ER nurses and not the docs. I'm not sure why the doctors are so 'hush hush' about proper treatment. Perhaps it's for the return buisiness?<br><br>