I rarely get injured so when i do i'm often unsure of what to do. i recently nicked my skin by ankle while shaving and i am wondering is it better to keep bandaid over it at all times or should i remove it to 'let it breathe'?

Easy 1,2,3.: Clean the site with soap and water first. Apply a wee amount of an topical antibiotic. Neosporin is fine. A bandaid for a day or two will help protect the area from further damage. Keep applying the ointment until the skin is healed and you should be fine. If it looks like it needs attention, then visit the urgent care center. I doubt that will be necessary.

Bandaid not necessar: Most cuts on the hands heal in 5-6 days. Band aids are helpful initially like the first 24 to 48 hours. After that the band aid may be harmful as the area needs to breathe and remain dry in order to keep the infection away. Watch for any liquid discharge from the cut. it can be a sign of infection requiring further medical attention.