SUTURE QUESTIONS

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR SUTURE QUESTIONS

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance)

• Not moving or too weak to stand

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

• Your child looks or acts very sick.
• Major surgical wound that's starting to open up.
• Bleeding that won't stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure.
• Suture came out early and wound has re-opened.

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

• You think your child needs to be seen.
• Suture came out early and wound is still closed.
• Suture removal is overdue.

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

• You have other questions or concerns.

Parent Care at Home If

• Sutured wound with no complications 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.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

See Other Topics:

• Skin Injury (Cuts, Scrapes, Bruises)
• Wound Infection

View Anatomic Index of Topics