Project Description

EXPERIENCED STAFF

EXPERIENCED STAFF

Our skilled team ensures expert care for your health needs.

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IN-NETWORK HEALTHCARE

We work with your insurance to provide affordable care.

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IN-HOUSE DIAGNOSTICS

On-site tests for accurate and efficient diagnosis.

EXTENDED HOURS

EXTENDED HOURS

UUC is open 7 days a week from 10AM-8PM

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Conveniently streamline your visit with our online check-in option.

Managing Minor Open Wound Injuries: A Guide to Stitches and Treatment at University Urgent Care

Minor open wound injuries like cuts, scrapes and lacerations can occur unexpectedly. These injuries, while not typically life-threatening, demand swift and appropriate attention to promote effective healing and prevent potential complications. This page explores the realm of minor open wound injuries, offers insights into the processes of both stitching and stapling wounds, and sheds light on the comprehensive treatment available at University Urgent Care, in Fort Worth.

WHAT IS A MINOR OPEN WOUND INJURY?

Minor open wound injuries encompass a spectrum of cuts, scrapes, and lacerations that involve varying degrees of tissue damage. These injuries often result from commonplace accidents, ranging from everyday mishaps to minor sports-related incidents. While they may not pose an immediate danger to life, neglecting proper care can lead to infections and hinder the healing process.

Certain injuries that fall outside the scope of our urgent care services may necessitate referral to an emergency room. 

DO I HAVE A WOUND INJURY?

Any bite wound, whether from a human or animal, should be treated by a professional to check for signs of infection. If a cut is deeper than 1 inch or it does not stop bleeding after 15 minutes, medical attention is needed. Keep wounds clean and apply pressure until you reach our office. If a wound is not healing normally or shows signs of an infection (fever, body aches, pus), you need medical care.

HOW ARE WOUND INJURIES TREATED?

When you visit UUC, our team will begin by getting your medical history, including current medications and known allergies, as well as your vital signs. In most cases, the wound will be cleaned and closed with stitches. If you have not had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years, it will be given to protect you from developing tetanus from the wound. A round of antibiotics is often prescribed to prevent an infection from developing. Our doctors will give each patient instructions for caring for the wound at home and when to follow up.

WILL I NEED STITCHES OR STAPLES FOR MY WOUND INJURY?

Depending on the severity and size of your wound, you may require stitches or staples to close off the area, protect against bacteria, and help speed along your recovery. If you receive sutures or staples after being treated for an injury, our team will get with you on the ideal time to come back so that we can safely remove them in our clean, well-kept office. We do not advise patients to remove sutures or staples on their own, as this could lead to an infection if done incorrectly.

 HOW ARE STITCHES AND STAPLES DONE?

Stitches (sutures) and staples are two common techniques employed by medical professionals to promote the healing of deeper open wounds. These methods involve skillfully aligning the wound’s edges to encourage natural healing and minimize scarring.

  1. Stitches: Prior to stitching, the wound is diligently cleaned to mitigate the risk of infection. Local anesthesia may be administered to numb the area, ensuring the patient’s comfort during the procedure. The healthcare provider then employs sterile tools to delicately suture the wound in a pattern conducive to optimal healing.
  2. Staples: Staples are a viable alternative to stitches for certain types of wounds. After cleaning the wound and administering local anesthesia, if necessary, the healthcare provider employs sterile surgical staples to join the wound’s edges together. Staples are particularly effective for wounds in areas with minimal tension.

Treatment at University Urgent Care

In the event of a minor open wound injury, university urgent care centers offer specialized and efficient treatment for students, faculty, and staff. The process involves:

  1. Initial Assessment: A skilled medical professional evaluates the wound’s severity, assessing potential complications.
  2. Cleaning and Preparation: The wound is meticulously cleaned to prevent infection. Local anesthesia is administered when required, ensuring patient comfort during stitching or stapling.
  3. Wound Closure: Depending on the wound’s nature, the healthcare provider decides whether stitching or stapling is more appropriate. The chosen method is executed meticulously to achieve proper wound closure.
  4. Post-Treatment Care: After the procedure, detailed instructions are provided for wound care, encompassing dressing changes, hygiene protocols, and indicators of potential infection.
  5. Follow-Up: Depending on the case, a follow-up appointment might be advised to monitor the healing process and preempt any complications.

URGENT CARE FOR KIDS

University Urgent Care provides minor open wound treatment for children aged 2 and up, catering to a wide range of medical needs including care for cuts, scrapes and minor open would injuries also called lacerations. At University Urgent Care we offer sutures or stitches, staples and staple removal. Families can either walk in for immediate care or conveniently schedule an appointment online, ensuring prompt attention to their child’s health. Learn more about our urgent care services for kids here.

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