When to Get Stitches for a Cut

Cuts and scrapes happen. When they do, odds are, all you need is some rubbing alcohol and a bandage to treat the nasty cut. However, this isn’t always the case – some wounds require stitches and additional care from a medical professional.

So, how can you differentiate when it’s time to break out your first aid kit and when to get stitches from a professional? If your cut meets any of the following criteria, stitches may be necessary:

• The cut continues to bleed after 15 minutes of applied pressure
• The cut was made from a rusty or dirty object
• The cut is more than a quarter of an inch deep
• Bone, muscle, or fat is exposed
• The cut is substantial and is located on your hand, finger, or face

You should call 911 immediately if you or someone around you has a wound with uncontrollable bleeding or is injured from a traumatic event, such as a gunshot or car accident.

Stitches and wound care at Fast Track Urgent Care

Fast Track Urgent Care’s fully equipped immediate care centers in Silver Spring and Kensington, Maryland, are led by board-certified physicians who provide stitching, sutures, splinting, digital X-ray imaging, and a full spectrum of personalized treatment to patients of all ages with non-life-threatening wounds. Simply visit when you need us – we have extended hours every day and do not require appointments, although you can check-in online if you prefer. Most major health insurances are accepted at our practice, including BlueCross/BlueShield.