How to Heal Wounds on Fingers

Finger wounds run a higher risk of infection since our hands are constantly in use and are touching things throughout the day. Finger injuries range from minor cuts and scrapes to serious tissue and ligament trauma that require medical attention. Several steps can be taken to heal finger wounds that do not require immediate medical assistance.

Things You'll Need

• Clean towel
• Antibacterial soap
• Antiseptic
• A/B ointment
• Bandages
• Liquid bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Stop bleeding by applying pressure onto the wound with a clean cloth or tissue. Keep the cloth firmly pressed onto the wound for up to 30 minutes. Holding your hand above your heart (over your head) will slow both circulation and bleeding.

• 2

  Clean the wound after bleeding has slowed. Rinse your hand with cool water to remove any dirt that might have gotten into your wound. Use clean tweezers to remove stubborn debris. Clean the area around the wound gently with antibacterial soap and rinse, patting dry with a clean towel. Refrain from using harsh treatments on your fingers and hands; products such as hydrogen peroxide can be very irritating to delicate finger tissues.

• 3

  Apply a bandage to keep the wound covered and protected from infection. Adding a cream with healing agents (such as vitamin a/b ointment) to your bandage can speed up the healing process as well.

• 4

  Keep your finger wound covered, and wash it several times a day. "The best way to protect a wound is to cover it with a bandage until fully healed. Letting a wound scab actually slows this process and can lead to unsightly scars and increased discomfort and pain," says Dr. Kevin C. Moran of Scarborough General Hospital. Your hands are constantly in motion, and an injured knuckle or cut finger can easily worsen if left uncovered. Covering your finger wound will keep infections and irritations at bay.

• 5

  Apply a liquid bandage if your finger wound is in a difficult spot for bandaging. Liquid bandage is a solution you paint over your wound. When the liquid dries, the wound is sealed and protected. You can find this product in most drug stores.

• 6

  See a doctor if all other treatments fail to stop your finger wound from bleeding or if your wound is very deep. You may need stitches for your wound to heal completely.