SKIN INJURY (BRUISES, CUTS AND SCRAPES)

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR SKIN INJURY

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance) If

Major bleeding that can't be stopped
First Aid: Apply direct pressure to the entire wound with a clean cloth.

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You think your child has a serious injury
Bleeding won't stop 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
Age < 1 year old
Dirt or grime in the wound is not removed after 15 minutes of scrubbing
Bicycle-spoke or washing machine wringer injury
Skin loss from bad scrape goes very deep
Skin loss involves > 10% of body surface (Note: the hand's surface equals 1%)
Cut or scrape looks infected (redness, red streak or pus)

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

You think your child needs to be seen
Several bruises occur without any known injury
Very large bruise follows a minor injury
No tetanus booster in > 10 years (5 years for dirty cuts at higher risk for tetanus)

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns.

Parent Care at Home If

Mild cut, scrape or bruise and you don't think your child needs 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 7/2004

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