Treating pus from a cut depends upon the severity of the cut and whether symptoms are involved. Pus from a cut always indicates the presence of a bacterial infection, as pus formation is an immune response to an infection. If the pus from a cut is draining, it should be gently cleaned with warm water and soap. Antibacterial solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide, should never be poured directly on the cut, because although peroxide is highly effective in eliminating bacteria, flooding the wound with it can cause tissue damage.

Pus from a cut should be evaluated by a health care provider who can determine if topical or oral antibiotics are needed. Sometimes, both types are recommended, especially in those wounds that are deep or severe. While waiting to see the health care provider, the individual can apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and then cover it with a sterile bandage. After a few days, the bandage can be removed and the cut allowed to be exposed to air.

Sometimes, pus from a cut can look pink or red as a result of pus mixing with blood. This is referred to as blood-tinged pus and is not generally an indication of the severity of the cut. Other variations of pus include its consistency, which can range from thin to extremely viscous. Viscous pus is characteristically very thick and sticky. In addition, pus from a cut can look yellow, green, or even brown.

Occasionally, pus from a cut can predispose an individual to a systemic infection that may produce fever, chills, and body aches. When this occurs, the health care provider needs to be notified, because if not treated, complications can arise. In addition, if red streaks are noticed stemming from the cut, emergency medical attention should be sought. This can indicated blood poisoning, and if not promptly recognized and treated, can lead to an unfavorable prognosis.

A cut that is infected and contains pus should not be lanced or drained at home. Done under less-than-sterile conditions, this can cause the infection to spread or worsen. Draining the pus from a cut should only be attempted in a sterile setting, in the office of the health care provider or emergency department. After the pus has been drained from the area, the wound is typically covered with antibiotic ointment, and then dressed with a sterile bandage or dressing.