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Reduce the Risk of Urgent Care: Lacerations

This multi-article series covers some of the most common injuries and illnesses treated in Colorado Mountain Medical’s urgent care clinics. 

Frostbite and diarrhea and nosebleeds…oh my! Colorado Mountain Medical’s urgent care providers see it all, and no one else (besides your mother) knows better than them that, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Urgent care providers Kallie Moulton, NP, Miles Henson, PA-C and Caroline Whalen, PA-C uncover the most common illnesses and injuries treated in urgent care, and teach you how you can reduce the risks of becoming a patient in one of our clinics.
 

Part 1: Lacerations

Lacerations are common and often preventable. Save yourself a visit and a scar!
 

Keep sharp objects out of reach.

• Store knives and scissors safely with blades covered. Be careful when placing them in dishwashers (blade down). Use protective covers on sharp tools like box cutters.
• Keep sharp objects and dangerous tools out of the reach of children–use child-proof locks on cabinets or drawers containing knives or other sharp items.
• Always keep an eye on children, especially when they’re in the kitchen, bathroom, or areas with sharp objects. Teach children to handle tools and equipment safely as they grow older.

Be mindful of kitchen safety.

• Always use a cutting board when chopping or slicing food. This prevents accidental cuts to your hands from sharp knives.
• Use proper techniques–when using knives, hold them firmly by the handle and cut away from your body. Beware of the notorious bagel, tomato and onion sandwich – we see many of its victims.

Be careful with tools and machinery.

• Inspect tools before use. Make sure knives, scissors, gardening equipment and power tools are in good working condition. Dull blades or faulty equipment can increase the risk of slips and lacerations. Always replace worn-out tools.
• Tools like saws, lawnmowers, and hedge trimmers often come with safety guards—USE THEM!
• Wear protective clothing. Gloves, close-toed shoes, long sleeves and pants can go a long way in prevention.
• Consider taking a Stop the Bleed course and having First Aid equipment near tools.

Dispose of broken glass and sharp objects properly.

• Handle broken glass carefully. If you break something made of glass, use a broom and dustpan to clean it up. Avoid using your hands, even if it's a small piece of glass. Place the pieces in a sturdy container, such as a cardboard box, and dispose of them immediately.
• Use a thick cloth. When picking up larger pieces of broken glass, use a thick cloth or gloves to protect your hands.

Do not hesitate to go to an urgent care or the Emergency Department if:

• You have a deep laceration that won’t stop bleeding or is decreasing your range of motion.
• You think you will need stitches. The wound will need to be properly cleaned so DO NOT wait until the next day.
• Your wound is in an area such as the face. Professional closure can minimize scarring.
• Your tetanus shot is not up to date. 
• You were in a body of water, your cut is over a joint, or the wound is just generally dirty. Infection prevention is key!  
• You are just not sure and want someone to tell you if you need stitches or not.

If you choose to treat at home, please consider:

• Applying pressure to stop the bleeding. There are over-the-counter quick clot products to help with this.
• If the bleeding is controlled, clean the affected area thoroughly with soapy water.
• Apply a pressure bandage.
• Consider Closex or steri strips if you do not want to come in for stitches, but you must clean first!
• Continue to clean with gently soapy water on a daily basis.
• Use Vaseline or Aquaphor on the wound daily and keep it covered.
• Follow up with a provider if you notice any signs of infection.