Most of the time, small cuts and scrapes will heal if cleaned and wrapped with a bandage. However, more serious injuries should prompt a trip to your local urgent care clinic for evaluation and treatment. But how are you to know the difference? The guide below explains.

When Do You Need Stitches?

1. When There’s an Excessive Amount of Blood

If your cut is bleeding for 10 minutes or more, and won’t let up even with pressure from a gauze pad, you may need stitches. Keep the area elevated as well as possible and continue to use clean towels or gauze on the wound during your ride to urgent care or the emergency room. A cut that’s spurting blood is serious and you should call 911.

2. When There’s an Infection Risk

Wounds caused by an animal, an old household tool, or an object like a nail should be evaluated by a doctor, whether they’re bleeding profusely or not. The doctor may update your tetanus shot and give you antibiotics to fight infection. 

3. Depending on the Location of the Cut

Even if the cut doesn’t seem serious, visit urgent care if it’s on your face or genital area, since they are especially susceptible to infection. A cut on the hand may also need stitches because movement makes it difficult to keep the cut closed with a bandage.

4. Depending on the Size of the Cut

A deep cut longer than half an inch may need stitches. If you can see fatty tissue or bone, you should seek immediate medical attention. A gaping wound or one that’s jagged should also be seen by a doctor because it may not heal properly without intervention.

Superior Urgent Care in Keller, TX, offers reliable, quality urgent care and general medicine for people of all ages. With on-site x-rays, drug screening, and audio and visual testing, they’re also the convenient choice for your DOT physical, sports injury treatment, and occupational medicine needs. Call (817) 576-4050 and make an appointment or check in online before you arrive. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram to keep up with special events, deals, and adjusted hours.