Finger, Hand, and Wrist Injuries
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Is your finger, hand, or wrist twisted, bent out of shape, or out of its normal position?
See significance of a finger, hand, or wrist that looks twisted, bent, or out of its normal position if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Note: Take the following first aid steps while transporting the injured person for medical evaluation of a broken bone or dislocation:
- Use a splint to limit movement.
- Keep the wrist or hand elevated, if possible.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Does your finger, hand, or wrist look twisted, bent out of shape, or out of its normal position?
Yes Do you have a blood-filled blister, scrape, or cut skin at the site of a suspected broken bone or dislocation?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Did your finger, hand, or wrist pop, move, or get pulled out of its normal position, then return to its normal position?
You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Does your finger continue to look misshapen from an injury that occurred more than 2 weeks ago?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | Last Updated: January 12, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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