How do I know when I need stitches for a cut on my thumb?

Answer 1

-if you are unable to get the bleeding to stop
-if you are able to pull to cut apart and see inside of it
-if it's not a straight cut (meaning the edges are jagged-it won't heal correctly w/out stitches if it has these)

if you have any of these-i would report to an urgent care or emergency room


you should make an appt regardless within 24 hours to be seen b/c you'll probably need a tetanus shot.

Answer 2

The rule of thumb (no pun intended) is 1/4 inch or more gets stiches, but if doesn't stop bleeding that supercedes the measurement. Hope you feel better.

Answer 3

when you can see that it can't grow back together because it has irregular pattern and won't heal right, or you have too much thumb movements all the time and infection are present. when you know nothing about taking care of it, if it is deep enough that too look at it it makes you really scared sick feeling about it.

Answer 4

if it's been less than 18 hours since injury
if it is deep
if it doesn't stop bleeding
if it involves the nail bed
if you can't get the edges together with a bandaid.

Answer 5

If it is still bleeding after you apply pressure for half an hour.'

If it stops bleeding and then starts again

Answer 6

If it looks like a hole instead of a cut.

Answer 7

do you see bone ,is it deep go to the er room for sure

Answer 8

when the doctor tells you that you do......if you have to ask then go to the ER

Answer 9

if it wont stop bleeding