At ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care, we are ready to provide prompt and professional treatment for cuts that may require stitches. Stitches are thin medical threads used to close wounds, ensuring tissue edges stay together during the healing process.
When Does a Cut Require Stitches?
You or your child may need stitches if a cut:
- Is still bleeding after applying firm pressure for five minutes.
- Is gaping or wide.
- Is more than ¼ inch deep.
- Is more than ½ inch long.
- Has jagged or uneven edges.
- Is on your or your child’s face, lips, neck, abdomen, or chest.
- Has glass or other foreign objects in it.
- Is spurting blood.
Urgent Care vs. ER for Stitches
Do you have a cut or laceration but aren’t sure where to get stitches? Here are a few things to help you determine whether an urgent care or emergency room is right for you:
When to go to urgent care:
- You have a minor cut or laceration that is not deep or gaping open.
- You have a minor cut or laceration that is controlled with firm pressure.
- You have a superficial tear that may need sutures but is not severe.
- You have a minor cut or laceration on a non-critical area of the body (e.g., arm or leg).
- You have a minor cut or laceration from a non-severe accident (e.g., fall, sports-related, kitchen mishap, etc.)
When to go to an emergency room:
- You have a deep or gaping wound with muscle or fat exposed.
- You have serious bleeding that is not controlled with firm pressure.
- You have a wound on the face, lips, neck, abdomen, or chest.
- You have sustained a serious wound from a car or industrial accident.
- You have a wound with embedded foreign objects.
Does Getting Stitches Hurt?
Getting stitches should not hurt. Your provider will numb the area with a local anesthetic before stitching. It is normal to experience some itching, burning, redness, and mild swelling immediately following stitches, but these symptoms should subside within 1-2 days.
Does Urgent Care Do Stitches?
Yes. You can get stitches at any ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care clinic. Walk into your nearest clinic today or save your spot in line for faster service.
We understand how unsettling it can be to have a cut or laceration that won’t stop bleeding—that’s why our skillful providers are dedicated to prompt and compassionate treatment.
Our stitching process usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size, location, and severity of your wound. This includes time for assessment, cleaning, and stitching.
Once we have completed stitching your wound, we will discharge you with after-care instructions and let you know whether you need to return for removal.
How to Care for Stitches at Home
Following all after-care instructions will keep your wound dry and clean, helping you avoid infection. Here are a few important things to remember:
- Keep the area dry and clean
- Use a sterile bandage to cover the stitches, protecting the wound from dirt and bacteria.
- Avoid soaking the wound in water until the stitches are removed or healed.
- Watch for signs of infection (e.g., redness, swelling, warmth, pus, etc.)
- Avoid picking or scratching the wound or stitches.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
- Check the stitches regularly to ensure they are intact (if they come loose, contact your healthcare provider).
- Follow any specific care instructions provided by ClearChoiceMD
- Follow up with your healthcare provider within 5 to 14 days, or as advised by ClearChoiceMD.
Why Choose ClearChoiceMD for Urgent Care Stitches
At ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care, we’re committed to providing the care you need when it matters most.
Whether you have a minor cut that needs stitches or need guidance on the next steps, our providers and clinical staff are ready to help.
