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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Treatment for Finger Injuries

Call 911 if: 

  • Blood is spurting from the wound
  • Bleeding cannot be stopped after 5-10 minutes of firm and steady pressure

Treating Finger Injuries at Home

1. Stop Bleeding

 

  • Apply firm pressure until bleeding stops.
  • If finger or part of finger is severed, put the severed part in a clean plastic bag, pack the bag in ice, and take it with you to the doctor.

 

2. Clean Wound

 

  • Wash with fresh water.
  • Apply antibacterial cream to reduce risk of infection.
  • Apply a sterile bandage.

 

3. Control Swelling

 

  • Apply ice to a bruised or swollen finger.

 

4. When to See a Doctor

 

  • Inability to move the finger
  • Numbness
  • Bone is exposed
  • The wound is deep or long.
  • Pain and swelling are severe or persistent.
  • You can't clean the wound or the wound is very dirty. (You may need antibiotics)
  • The injury is a puncture wound and you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last 10 years.
  • The injury is from a human or animal bite.
  • If the wound doesn't heal or shows signs of infection: redness, swelling, pain, or pus.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by David M. Walker, MD on March 10, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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