It was really bad!You have a cut, and it looks pretty bad.Sometimes it's difficult to tell if the open wound needs stitches, which will help it heal and reduce scarring.If you don't know if your open wound needs stitching or not, here are some tips and methods you can use to find out if you need to go to the hospital.
Step 1: You have to stop the bleeding.
Bleeding can be reduced by elevating the injured body part above the heart.Apply firm pressure to the open wound with a clean cloth or damp paper towel.If it's still bleeding, remove the cloth or paper towel.If the bleeding is significant, you should immediately go to the hospital.If the bleeding is uncontrollable, or blood is gushing from the wound, call emergency services immediately, as this can be life threatening.
Step 2: If there is an object in the wound, you should check it.
It is important to see a doctor if there is foreign material present.This is due to the risk of infections, the need to assess if and how the object can be removed safely, and the possibility of needing stitches.Don't attempt to remove the object.The object can help stop the bleeding.You should see a doctor if there is anything stuck in the wound.
Step 3: If the cut is caused by a bite, you should see a doctor.
Regardless of whether you need stitches or not, you should seek medical help if you have any of these cuts.
Step 4: Take into account the area of the injury.
It is important to see a doctor if you have a cut on your face, hands, mouth, or genitals.
Step 5: Understand why stitches are being used.
There are many uses for stitches.The most common reason for getting stitches is to close a large wound.The edges of the wound can be brought together with stitches.To stop the spread of the disease.If you have a large gaping wound, closing it with stitches can help to minimize the risk of infections, as skin that is broken open, especially large, gaping wounds, are a prime target for infections to enter the body.After your wound heals, it's important to prevent or reduce scarring.It's important when the cut is on areas of the body that are more important, such as the face.
Step 6: Consider the extent of the wound.
The wound may be eligible for stitching if it is more than a quarter of an inch deep.If it's deep enough, you should see a doctor for treatment.
Step 7: Evaluate the size of the wound.
The edges of the wound need to be pulled together to cover the exposed tissue.If the edges of the wound need to be pulled together to cover a gap of exposed tissue, this is an indication that stitches may be required.By pulling the edges of the wound close to each other, stitches can be used to speed healing.
Step 8: Look at the wound.
If the open wound is located on a specific area of the body where there is a lot of movement involved, it will most likely need stitching to prevent re- opening the wound.If there is an open wound on the knee joint, fingers or thigh, it would be eligible for stitches.
Step 9: Ask your doctor if you need to get a tetanus shot.
You'll have to be re-vaccinated after 10 years if you don't get tetanus shots anymore.If you have an open wound and haven't had a tetanus shot in 10 years, you should go to the hospital.The doctor can evaluate the cut while you are in the hospital to see if it needs stitching.