Skin Injury (Cuts, Scrapes, Bruises)

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Injury Definition

• Cuts, lacerations, gashes and tears
• Scrapes, abrasions, scratches and floor burns
• Bruises (bleeding into the skin) without an overlying cut or abrasion

When Sutures (stitches) are Needed

• Any cut that is split open or gaping probably needs sutures. Cuts longer than ½ inch (12 mm) usually need sutures. On the face, cuts longer than ¼ inch (6 mm) need sutures. Any open wound that may need sutures should be checked and closed within 6 hours if possible.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• It's a puncture, see PUNCTURE WOUND
• There's a sliver in the skin, see SPLINTER OR SLIVER
• Injury looks infected, see WOUND INFECTION