Scrapes
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you have a scrape that may need stitches, staples, or skin adhesives?
See significance of scrapes that may need stitches, staples, or skin adhesives if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Note: Most wounds that require closure should be stitched, stapled, or closed with skin adhesives within 6 to 8 hours after the injury. Some wounds that require closure can be closed as long as 24 hours after the injury. For more information, see are stitches, staples, or skin adhesives necessary?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have a large or deep scrape that gapes open?
Yes Do you have other skin cuts besides a scrape that may need stitches, staples, or skin adhesives?
Yes Do you have a scrape on the face, eyelids, lips, or other area that you are worried may scar?
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: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC | Last Updated: June 30, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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