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 or open 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.