What should you know about a wound that needs stitches?

A cut is assessed for more than its length. Clinicians look at whether the skin edges fall apart, how deep the injury reaches, whether it crosses a moving joint, and whether there is damage beneath the skin. Cuts in areas where appearance or movement matters can need particular care. A wound that is dirty, caused by a bite or contains glass may require cleaning and a different management plan.

Stitches are not automatically the right option. Some shallow, clean wounds can be supported with strips, skin glue or a dressing, while some wounds should be left open after cleaning. The decision is made after the wound is examined.

Wash your hands, apply continuous firm pressure with a clean dressing and keep the injured part still. If blood soaks through, add another layer rather than removing the first. Do not probe the wound, try to remove deeply embedded objects or use household adhesives to close it.

Arrange prompt clinical assessment if the edges gape, yellow fatty tissue is visible, or the cut is on the hand, face, foot or over a joint. Bring information about the injury and any tetanus vaccinations if you have it.

Seek emergency help for spurting bleeding, bleeding that continues despite pressure, faintness, numbness, a pale or cold limb, or trouble moving fingers or toes. Urgent assessment is also appropriate for animal or human bites, crush injuries, wounds from dirty metal or soil, and cuts near the eye. Later, obtain medical advice for worsening pain, spreading redness, swelling, cloudy drainage, fever or a wound that opens.

Ask whether the wound needs closure, what material will be used, and how the closure should be protected at home. Clarify when to return for a check, whether stitches dissolve, and whether tetanus protection should be updated.