For a child with scrapes on both elbows, what is the best course of action?

Flushing the wounds with a large volume of warm water is the best course of action for a child with scrapes on both elbows. This step is crucial because it helps to clean the area effectively, removing dirt, debris, and bacteria that may cause infection. Thoroughly irrigating the wounds reduces the risk of complications like infection or further irritation, enabling the healing process to begin in a cleaner environment.

Using warm water is beneficial as it can be more comfortable for the child compared to cold water, potentially making the child more cooperative during treatment. Proper cleaning lays the foundation for effective wound management, which typically includes subsequent steps such as applying antiseptic and covering the wound with a suitable dressing after ensuring that it is as clean as possible.