Injury Update
I'm a 28-year-old hairstylist who had a bit of a mishap last Saturday. While working, I ended up with a significant V-shaped cut on my knuckle and needed to seek treatment at urgent care. The doctor applied glue to the wound, secured it with Steri-Strips, and placed it in a splint. I returned on Tuesday for a follow-up, where the doctor noticed some dried blood, and a couple of the Steri-Strip edges were starting to peel up. Despite this, he reassured me that everything was healing well and that I could shower with caution—just avoiding direct soaking. However, for my job, I planned to use gloves for protection. This evening, the Steri-Strip came off completely, revealing that the adhesive seemed less effective, and there might have been some moisture trapped beneath. I'm uncertain about the next steps—should I return to get more adhesive or simply apply additional strips over the area? It's frustrating, especially considering the $35 charge for each visit.
Answers (1)
3/27/2025, 6:20:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been managing a challenging situation with your cut, and it's understandable to feel frustrated, especially with the progress you've made and the investment in care. The good news is that wounds often heal well when treated appropriately, and it seems like you are on the right track.
Key Points:
- Monitor the wound: Check for signs of infection.
- Protect the area: Keep it covered but avoid using defective strips.
- Consider follow-up care: Evaluate whether further professional assistance is needed.
Explanation:
Your cut was treated properly, and while it's common for Steri-Strips to come off due to moisture or friction, careful monitoring is important. Since you are a hairstylist and need to keep the area protected, it’s crucial to find a balance between letting the wound breathe and preventing further injury.
Next Steps:
- Clean the wound gently: Use mild soap and water to clean around the area. Pat it dry carefully.
- Protect the wound: If it looks clean, you can apply a new Steri-Strip or a soft adhesive bandage that won’t irritate the skin. This will offer protection while allowing the area to heal.
- Avoid moisture: Try to keep it dry, especially during your work. Using gloves is a good idea to avoid further irritation.
- Watch for signs of infection: Look for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If any of these occur, it might warrant a medical revisit.
- Consider an alternative adhesive: If you feel comfortable, you could apply a small amount of antiseptic ointment and cover it with a breathable bandage, rather than using Steri-Strips again, if it’s peeling off easily.
If healing isn't progressing or any concerns arise, following up with a healthcare provider is advisable. Let me know if you have further questions or need more details on care!
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