When to Go to the Hospital

Most doctors will not stitch a cut or laceration that is more than 8-12 hours old. This is because there is a greater chance of infection after that time. In fact, after 3 hours, the incidence of infection begins to increase. Therefore, do not wait to have the injury repaired. If you are in doubt, call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital's emergency department. An open wound takes longer to heal and leaves a bigger scar.

Reasons to go to the hospital if you have a wound:

• Obvious life-threatening wounds (Call 911 for emergency services.)
  
  
• Any laceration greater than 1/2-inch long that is through all layers of the skin exposing the underlying fat.
  
  
• If you cannot stop the bleeding
  
  
• If the blood continues to "spurt" from the wound (Apply pressure and go to the hospital's emergency department.)
  
  
• If you think that there may be something in the wound such as glass, wood, or rust, for example
  
  
• If you cannot move your finger or toe in the area of the laceration, or you have lost sensation in the area beyond the laceration
  
  
• For any bite wound (human or animal)
  
  
• If your physician cannot see you that day