As much as we may try to prevent them, accidental injuries happen all the time. And unfortunately, some injuries result in cuts that require stitches. It’s important to know when a cut needs stitches in order to recover quickly. This blog will explain where to go for stitches– which can make all the difference in proper and fast treatment.

For same-day acute injury care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our team of board-certified medical providers can provide stitches for lacerations seven days a week. Simply walk into the clinic or schedule an appointment online today!

When Does A Cut Need Stitches?

Not all cuts will require stitches, but it’s important to know when they do. As a general rule of thumb, any cut that is longer than a half inch and looks deep should be treated with stitches. This means cuts that are gaping or deep enough to expose tissue, bone, or muscle. Additionally, cuts that are bleeding heavily and won’t stop with applied pressure may also need stitches. When cuts are located near sensitive areas– like the face, joint, hand, or foot– they should be evaluated by a medical professional.

It’s always a good idea to seek medical attention when you aren’t quite sure if you need stitches. Urgent care centers are a great resource for those who wish to get a quick evaluation and determine if stitches are necessary. Delaying treatment can result in improper healing and the risk for an infection and scarring.

Getting Stitches: Urgent Care vs. ER

Both the ER and urgent care centers can provide stitches, so how do you decide where to go? The answer depends on a few factors– namely, the severity of the cut. If the cut is severe and bleeding heavily (specifically showing bone), you should seek immediate care at the ER. Emergency rooms handle all severe injuries and conditions. However, if your cut is not life-threatening but still might require stitches, then urgent care is a great option.

Urgent care centers are equipped with everything necessary to diagnose and treat minor to moderate injuries. With digital x-ray systems and experienced medical providers, you’ll receive the best care possible for acute conditions. Additionally, urgent care is typically much more affordable and faster than the ER– allowing you to get in and out of the clinic quickly.

What Types of Injuries Are Treated At Urgent Care?

The specific types of injuries treated at urgent care can vary by clinic, but generally urgent care can handle all acute, non-life-threatening injuries. Board-certified medical providers can examine your injury and guide you through the comprehensive treatment regimen, even prescribing the appropriate medication to reduce pain.

Common injuries treated at urgent care clinics include:

• Bone breaks and fractures
• Sprains and strains
• Scrapes and bruises
• Cuts needing stitches
• Dislocations
• Burns

If you need same-day injury care, or stitches, visit AFC Urgent Care Union City! Our urgent care center is a convenient, affordable, and quality resource for those needing quick care. With board-certified medical providers and digital x-rays, your injury will be diagnosed and treated comprehensively. If you have any questions about whether or not we can treat your injury, please call us directly at (551) 257-1948.