Minor cuts and scrapes are a normal part of life– but some wounds need more than just a bandage and antiseptic. Knowing when a cut requires medical attention and possible stitches is crucial to prevent infection, reduce scarring, and promote proper healing. So how can you tell the difference between a cut you can treat at home and one that needs stitches? In this blog, we’ll share six signs to watch for and what to expect when getting stitches at urgent care.
For same-day injury care and stitches, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands. Our medical team is available 7 days a week to treat your cut with no appointment required. Just walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
6 Signs That You Might Need Stitches
1. The Cut Is Deep
One of the clearest indicators that you may need stitches is the depth of the wound. If you can see fat, muscle, or even bone, or if the cut goes deeper than 1/4 inch, it’s time to seek medical care. Deep wounds won’t close properly on their own and are more prone to infection without professional treatment.
2. The Wound Is Long Or Wide
Length matters, too. If the cut is longer than 1/2 inch or gapes open when you try to bring the edges together, stitches or medical adhesive may be necessary to keep the wound closed. A wound that won’t stay shut will take longer to heal and could result in a more noticeable scar.
3. Bleeding Doesn’t Stop
A cut that bleeds excessively or won’t stop after applying direct pressure for 10 to 15 minutes needs medical attention. Persistent bleeding may mean the wound has damaged a blood vessel or is in a location where healing is slower. Stitches can help close the wound and stop bleeding more effectively.
4. The Edges Are Jagged
Clean, straight cuts (like those from a kitchen knife) are more likely to heal on their own. But jagged or irregular wounds, such as those caused by broken glass, accidents, or animal bites, typically require stitches to ensure the skin can heal evenly and minimize scarring.
5. The Cut Is On A Joint Or High-Movement Area
If your cut is located on a joint (like your knee, elbow, or knuckle) or an area that moves frequently (such as your hands or feet) stitches may be necessary to keep the wound closed while you move. These areas are prone to reopening during normal activity, which can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
6. Signs Of Infection Or Contamination
If the cut was caused by a dirty object, or if there’s debris inside the wound that you can’t remove, it’s best to seek care. Cuts that are red, swollen, warm to the touch, or oozing pus may already be infected and require medical cleaning, stitches, and possibly antibiotics.
When To Visit Urgent Care For Stitches
Urgent care clinics are a convenient place to get timely wound treatment. If you’re unsure whether your cut needs stitches, a provider can assess the injury, clean the wound properly, and determine the best course of action– whether that’s stitches, medical adhesive, or a simple dressing. Stitches are most effective when placed within 6 to 8 hours of the injury, so it’s best not to wait.
When you visit urgent care for a cut that may need stitches, you can expect a thorough wound evaluation, which includes a provider’s examination. The area will be cleaned to reduce the risk of infection. Before stitching, the laceration is typically numbed. You’ll be given instructions on aftercare, which generally means how to keep the area clean and try.
Get Same-Day Injury Care at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands
When in doubt, it’s always safer to have a medical professional evaluate a cut– especially if it’s deep, bleeding heavily, or located in a sensitive area. Stitches not only help wounds heal faster and cleaner but also reduce the risk of complications. At AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands, we offer expert wound care with minimal wait times, so you can get treated and back to your day with confidence. If you are suffering from a deep wound, come visit us for a same-day evaluation and treatment. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about injury treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 477-6000.
