TOE INJURY

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR TOE INJURY

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Major bleeding (actively bleeding or spurting) that can't be stopped
Toe has been partially or completely amputated
First Aid: Apply direct pressure to the entire wound with a clean cloth.

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You think you have a serious injury
Injury looks like a dislocated joint (crooked or deformed)
Bleeding that hasn't stopped after 10 minutes of direct pressure
Cut or scrape is very deep (e.g. can see bone or tendons)
Skin is split open or gaping and may need stitches
Blood present under a nail is causing severe pain
Toenail is torn from a crush injury or cut
Dirt or grime in the wound is not removed after 15 minutes of scrubbing
Toenail is completely torn off
Base of toenail has popped out from under skin fold
Cut or scrape looks infected (redness, red streak or pus)

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

You think you need to be seen
Cut or scrape and its been more than 10 years since last tetanus booster (5 years for dirty cuts and scrapes)
Diabetic with any toe injury

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns
Injury interferes with work or school
Injury and pain have not improved after 3 days
Injury is still painful and swollen after 2 weeks

Self Care at Home If

Minor toe injury and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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