If a child's cut finger won't stop bleeding, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Specifically, you should call your doctor or take your child for medical care if the bleeding doesn't stop after applying pressure for 15-20 minutes.
Here's a breakdown of when to seek help, based on the provided reference:
When to Seek Medical Care for a Bleeding Cut
| Situation | Action |
|---|---|
| Bleeding continues after 15-20 minutes of pressure | Call your doctor or take your child for medical care. Continue applying pressure to the wound until medical help is available. |
| Dirt, debris, or an object is stuck in the wound | Call your doctor or take your child for medical care. Do not attempt to remove the object yourself, as this could worsen the injury. |
Steps to Take While Waiting for Medical Help:
- Apply Direct Pressure: Use a clean cloth or bandage and firmly press on the cut. Do not lift to check the wound; maintain continuous pressure.
- Elevate the Hand: If possible, raise the injured hand above the child’s heart. This can help slow down the bleeding.
- Keep the Child Calm: A calm child will bleed less. Soothe and reassure the child to reduce anxiety and maintain a more steady heart rate.
- Do Not Remove the Pressure: If the cloth becomes soaked in blood, don’t remove it; instead, place a new cloth or bandage over the top and continue applying pressure.
It is important to remember that consistent pressure is needed to help stop the bleeding. Avoid periodically lifting the cloth to see if it is still bleeding. This can disrupt the clotting process.
If you cannot stop the bleeding after 20 minutes of pressure, or if there is anything stuck in the wound, it is imperative to get professional medical assistance as soon as possible.
