SKIN INJURY (CUTS, SCRAPES, BRUISES)

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR SKIN INJURY

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Major bleeding (actively bleeding or spurting) that can't be stopped
Cut on the neck, chest, back, or abdomen that may go deep (e.g. stab wound)
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
Severe pain
Bleeding that hasn't stopped after 10 minutes of direct pressure
Cut is very deep (e.g. can see bone or tendons)
Skin is split open or gaping and may need stitches
Dirt or grime in the wound is not removed after 15 minutes of scrubbing
Skin loss from bad scrape goes very deep
Skin loss involves greater than 10% of body surface (Note: the hand's surface equals 1%)
High pressure injection injury (e.g. from paint gun, usually work-related)
Cut or scrape looks infected (redness, red streak or pus)

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

You think you need to be seen
Several bruises occur without any known injury
Very large bruise follows a minor injury (wider than 2 inches)
No tetanus booster in more than 10 years (5 years for dirty cuts and scrapes)
Diabetic with any cut or scrape on foot

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home If

Minor cut, scrape or bruise 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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