Discharge Instructions for Hand Laceration Repair
After your hand laceration repair, follow these specific wound care instructions to promote healing, prevent infection, and achieve the best cosmetic outcome.
Wound Care
- Keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24-48 hours 1
- After 24-48 hours, gently clean the wound daily with mild soap and warm tap water 2
- Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment after cleaning (if no known allergies) 2
- Cover with a clean, dry dressing until the wound has sealed (usually 2-3 days) 2
- Once sealed, you may leave the wound uncovered during the day but continue to cover at night until sutures are removed 1
Pain Management
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed for pain according to package instructions 1
- Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen if possible as they may increase bleeding risk 1
- Apply ice packs with a thin barrier (like a towel) between the ice and skin for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling 2
Activity Restrictions
- Elevate your hand above the level of your heart when possible to reduce swelling
- Avoid strenuous activities involving the hand for at least 1 week 1
- No contact sports or activities that could traumatize the wound until complete healing (2-3 weeks) 1
- Resume normal activities gradually as comfort allows
Suture Removal
- Return to clinic in 7-10 days for suture removal and wound check 1
- Hand sutures are typically removed after 7-10 days to balance wound strength with cosmetic outcome 1
Warning Signs - Seek Medical Attention If:
- Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or red streaking extending from the wound 2
- Increasing pain or tenderness beyond what would be expected 2
- Pus or foul-smelling drainage from the wound 2
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- The wound reopens or edges separate
Long-Term Care
- After healing is complete (2-4 weeks), gently massage the scar with moisturizer to help with scar remodeling 1
- Protect the healed wound from sun exposure with sunscreen (SPF 30+) for at least 6 months to prevent darkening 1
- Scar formation continues for up to 12 months, so continue proper care 1
Additional Instructions
- Keep your follow-up appointment even if the wound appears to be healing well
- Tetanus prophylaxis may have been given if needed; no further action required
- Prophylactic antibiotics are generally not necessary for simple hand lacerations 3, 4
Remember that proper wound care significantly reduces infection risk and improves cosmetic outcome. Most simple hand lacerations heal well with only about 5% becoming infected 4.