OpenHealth Q&A

It's understandable to be concerned about continuous bleeding from a finger injury, especially after several hours. While minor cuts can bleed initially, ongoing bleeding may indicate the need for closer attention.

Main Points:

• Continuous bleeding for several hours can be a sign of an inadequate clot or deeper injury.
• While not all injuries are severe, it is essential to manage them properly to prevent infection.

Explanation: When you get a cut or puncture from glass, the body starts the healing process immediately by forming a clot. If the bleeding does not stop, it might be due to several reasons such as a deeper cut that affects blood vessels, movement aggravating the injury, or inadequate pressure applied to the wound. Although your injury might seem minor, it's crucial to ensure that it's treated effectively to prevent complications like infection.

Next Steps:

1. Apply Direct Pressure: Use a clean cloth or bandage to apply firm pressure directly on the wound for at least 10-15 minutes without lifting the cloth to check on the bleeding. If the bleeding continues, repeat this step.

2. Keep the Finger Elevated: Elevate your hand above heart level to reduce blood flow to the area, which can help slow down the bleeding.

3. Clean the Wound: Once the bleeding stops, gently clean the wound with mild soap and water. This helps reduce the risk of infection.

4. Bandage the Area: After cleaning, use a sterile bandage to cover the wound. Make sure it is snug but not too tight to cut off circulation.

5. Monitor the Injury: Keep an eye on the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge that is yellow or green.

6. Limit Activity: Try to rest your hand and avoid using it as much as possible until the bleeding has stopped and the wound has started to heal.

If the bleeding does not stop after these steps, or if you notice any signs of infection, it’s important to seek professional medical evaluation.