wound care--when to call the doctor

[Guest guest]

Wound Care

When to Call the Doctor

* All bites and any cut or laceration greater than 1/2-inch long in

which you can see fat or deeper tissues (muscle or bone) will require

medical attention.

* If bleeding is brisk or blood spurts with your heartbeat or does not

stop after 10 minutes, your doctor should be called.

* If there is still dirt and debris in an abrasion after your best

attempt at cleaning the area, you should notify your doctor.

* Any redness extending from the wound after 2 days or yellow drainage

from the area should warrant medical attention.

* You should find out from your doctor when you last had a tetanus

shot. If the wound was dirty, you should have one if it has been more than 5

years since your last tetanus immunization. You should have this done within

48 hours of the injury.