Physician One Urgent Care Logo
Facebook Icon Twitter Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon Pinterest Icon Youtube Icon

Map Marker Icon
Location promo Map
 
 

Lacerations

Lacerations are injuries to the skin and underlying soft tissue. Most often, they appear as a tear, cut or gash and may involve bruising, swelling, pain and bleeding. While home treatment is enough for minor lacerations, severe wounds may require emergency attention.

When to Call 911

Because severe lacerations can lead to a life-threatening loss of blood, it's important to call 911 if any of the following occurs:

  • Severe bleeding
  • Spurting blood
  • Bleeding that won't stop even after ten minutes of firm, steady pressure

Caring for a Laceration

When lacerations occur, immediate attention is usually necessary. To promote faster healing and reduce the risk of complications, take the following steps:

  • Stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound
  • Clean the wound with a gentle soap and warm water
  • Apply antibiotic cream to reduce the risk of infection
  • Place a sterile bandage on the laceration

When to Visit the Doctor

Sometimes, lacerations require stitches and other forms of treatment from a medical professional. Visit your doctor or an urgent care facility under the following circumstances:

  • The cut is over a joint or very deep
  • You are unable to effectively clean the wound
  • You haven't had a tetanus shot in the last five years.
  • The cut is from an animal or human bite

In most cases, a cut requiring stitches should be repaired within six hours of the injury. With cuts to the scalp and face; however, the window expands to 24 hours. Whatever the case, it's important to seek medical attention sooner rather than later to guard against infection and severe scarring.

Convenient clinic locations

Meet our medical team

On-site services

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately or go to your local emergency room.

*PhysicianOne Urgent Care will only administer the flu vaccine to privately insured and uninsured patients age 5 and older. Due to Connecticut State Law, PhysicianOne Urgent Care will not vaccinate patients under age 19 who are covered through Husky or Medicaid.