Accidents happen. Therefore, it is not unusual to cut yourself with a knife in the kitchen or while working on a project around the house. That’s why it’s important to know how to use first aid to treat a cut finger. Basically, there are four easy steps you need to follow:
- stop the bleeding
- clean the wound
- apply an antibiotic
- cover with bandage
Read on to learn more about how to treat a cut finger. This article will also discuss how to determine if you have a minor cut or a more serious injury.
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1 Deep finger cuts
If you have a deep cut on your finger, you may need to see a doctor. Even you may need stitches. If this is the case, check the wound.
Then you should go to an urgent care clinic or the emergency room. Use the emergency room only for emergencies or if regular care is closed and you can’t wait.
When do you need stitches?
If the cut goes through the skin and leaves a large wound, you will probably need stitches. This is particularly true if you can see fat or muscle.
To reduce the risk of scarring and infection, a member of the healthcare staff should close the court in a few hours.
2 Stop the bleeding
An accidental cut can be minor or serious. The first step with either is try to stop the bleeding. It will give you a clearer view of the depth of the cut:
Minor cuts and scrapes that ooze a little blood usually don’t require any bleeding control. They usually stop bleeding on their own. But you can apply pressure to help with this.
Your next step is to clean the wound.
If the bleeding is heavy, bright red or dripping, take steps to control it. You priority must be apply pressure with clean gauze or a towel and elevate the wound.
If your finger is amputated, put pressure on it to control bleeding. Follow the steps to treat an amputation.
wrap amputated finger with damp gauze or damp paper towel. Must also seal it in a plastic bag filled with ice. Ask for immediate Medic assistance. This may require a call to 131 (or the emergency telephone number in each country).
If you are not the injured person, try wearing protective gloves when treating the cut.
Follow universal precautions like wash your hands before touching the wound. This can prevent infection and the spread of contagious diseases.
3 Clean the wound
The next step is to clean the wound. This will help prevent infection. Also it will allow you to really see how deep the cut is. This is what you need to do:
- Rinse the cut with clean running water.
- Wash around the wound with soap. Antibacterial soap is not necessary, but try to keep soap off the wound because it can irritate it. If you can, avoid soap products with strong perfumes. They can irritate the cut.
- If there is dirt or other debris in the wound, clean a pair of tweezers with rubbing alcohol. Use them to gently remove any particles you can see. If you can’t get out all particles, you may need medical or nurse care to do this.
- You should not use hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide), iodine, or any cleanser that contains iodine. These products they can only irritate the injury.
4 Use an antibiotic ointment
Antibiotic ointment is not necessary for most minor cuts. But if you’re going to be in dirt and grime, it’s a good idea to put on some. the ointment will not help the wound heal faster. Secondly, can prevent infections.
Never apply ointment directly to the cut. You don’t want to contaminate the container. Instead, apply the ointment ideally with a cotton swab. You can also use another clean, disposable surface, such as a small piece of clean gauze.
5 Apply a bandage
The Adhesive bandages protect the cut from contamination. They are not necessary for many minor cuts and scrapes, unless there is the possibility of get dirty or irritated.
When applying an adhesive bandage, never touch the pad. Peel off one side of the protective cover and attach it to the finger. Wrap the bandage around the finger, removing the other covering as you go.
6 Watch for infection
After dressing a minor cut, be aware of the possibility that an infection may be developing.
Signs of infection include:
- Increased temperature or pain
- redness
- Swelling
- oozing
If you notice any of these or anything else that seems abnormal, see your doctor or go to a care center.
Do you need a tetanus shot?
If the wound is particularly deep Y have not had a tetanus shot in the last five years, it’s a good idea to put one on. Consult the doctor if you have any doubts, especially if you have cut yourself with any metal that has some degree of oxidation.
Keep the wound clean. Replace the bandage at least once a day or when it gets dirty.
Summary
It is quite common for people to accidentally cut themselves with a kitchen knife or while working around the house. Knowing what to do when you cut your finger can help prevent infection or even excessive bleeding.
The most important first aid steps include stopping the bleeding, cleaning the wound, applying an antibiotic, and putting on a bandage. If you have a deep cut, it is important to go to an urgent care center or emergency room to get help from a health care provider.