SKIN INJURY (BRUISES, CUTS AND SCRAPES)
Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice
Bruise on Thigh
- This bruise is one day old.
- Bruises (contusions) result from a direct blow or a crushing injury; there is bleeding into the skin from damaged blood vessels without an overlying cut or abrasion.
Abrasion on Shoulder
- Fell and struck shoulder on sidewalk.
- The picture shows a shallow abrasion with minor bleeding.
Shallow Abrasion on Elbow
Bruise on Shoulder
- This bruise is four days old.
- Bruises (contusions) result from a direct blow or a crushing injury; there is bleeding into the skin from damaged blood vessels without an overlying cut or abrasion.
Small Minor Bruise on Forearrm
Scalp Laceration
- This scalp laceration (cut) is gaping open. It required closure with medical staples.
Puncture Wound with Foreign Body
- There is a small metal splinter (foreign body) embedded in the palm of the hand. This patient went to the emergency department and had the splinter removed.
Puncture Wound from BB in Left Upper Arm
X-Ray Showing BB in Left Upper Arm
Shallow Scratches on the Wrist from a Cat's Claws
Injury Definition
- Cuts, lacerations, gashes and tears
- Scrapes, abrasions, scratches and floor burns
- Bruises (bleeding into the skin) without an overlying cut or abrasion
When Sutures (stitches) are Needed
- Any cut that is split open or gaping probably needs sutures. Cuts longer than ½ inch (1 cm) usually need sutures. On the face, cuts longer than ¼ inch (6 mm) need sutures. Any open wound that may need sutures should be checked and closed within 6 hours if possible.
See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If
- It's a puncture, see PUNCTURE WOUND
- There's a sliver in the skin, see SPLINTER OR SLIVER
- Injury looks infected, see WOUND INFECTION
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.
Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Reviewed 8/2004
Revised 7/2004
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