From the Research
To describe a finger laceration from a knife cut on the medial side of the index finger and on the nail, you should document the location, size, depth, appearance, and associated structures involved, including neurovascular status and tendon function, as this information is crucial for determining appropriate treatment and monitoring healing progress. When documenting the laceration, begin by noting the exact location as a laceration on the medial aspect (side facing the middle finger) of the index finger, extending to involve the nail, as described in general wound assessment principles 1. Measure the length in centimeters and estimate the depth (superficial, partial thickness, or full thickness), and note whether the wound edges are clean-cut or jagged, if there is active bleeding, and the presence of any foreign material. For the nail portion, document whether the nail plate is damaged, if there is subungual hematoma (blood under the nail), and if the nail bed is exposed or lacerated, considering the potential for nerve injury as discussed in the context of median nerve injuries 2. Also, assess and document neurovascular status by checking capillary refill, sensation, and movement of the affected finger, and include information about tendon function by having the patient flex and extend the finger to rule out tendon injury, as tendon and ligament injuries can have significant implications for finger function and require appropriate evaluation and treatment 3. This detailed description helps in determining appropriate treatment, such as the potential need for prophylactic antibiotics in certain cases of hand lacerations 1, and provides a baseline for monitoring healing progress, especially in cases where specialized evaluation and treatment may be necessary due to the involvement of tendons, nerves, or nail beds.