Case study ( 6411 views as of December 12, 2024 )
Jenn is a 37-year-old who was cleaning up after a party in her home. She reached into the dishwasher without realizing that a wine glass had broken, and cut her hand between her thumb and index finger.
It initially bled a fair bit, but she was able to stop the bleeding in a few minutes with some direct pressure from an available dish towel. She bandaged it up with some gauze and cling wrap from her first aid kit at home, thinking that it wasn’t going to require any stitches. Later that evening though, she became concerned when she noticed blood soaking through the dressing, and realized that she had some numbness to the side of her index finger.
When such injuries occur, one should consider the possibility of injuries to underlying structures. Jenn could consider calling 811 (the Nurse Advice Line), going to an Urgent Care Clinic or the closest Emergency Department. Once a full assessment has been completed, Jenn may be referred to a plastic surgeon, hand physiotherapist or bracing and support specialist. A First Aid Supply Store, Medical Supply Store and/or pharmacy may carry many of the products she could use to manage the injury.
Author: Dr. Adam Lund
Conversation based on: Acute Hand Laceration " Jenn is a 37-year-old who cut her thumb and index finger "
Acute Hand Laceration " Jenn is a 37-year-old who cut her thumb and index finger "