When Should I Visit Urgent Care for Stitches in Columbus, OH?

At Scioto Urgent Care in Columbus, OH, we understand that certain types of wounds require stitches (also known as sutures) to ensure proper healing, prevent infection, and minimize scarring. If you have a wound that is deep, longer than half an inch, or has jagged edges that won’t stay together on their own, stitches may be necessary. Prompt medical attention is important for wounds that continue to bleed despite applying direct pressure for 10 to 15 minutes or when the wound edges are gaping.

Types of Wounds That May Require Stitches:

• Deep or Large Cuts: If the wound is deep enough to expose underlying tissues or is longer than half an inch.

• Jagged Edges: Cuts that don’t stay together on their own may need stitches for proper alignment and healing.

• Cuts That Bleed Persistently: If the bleeding doesn’t stop after applying pressure for 10-15 minutes, it’s essential to get stitches.

• Tension Areas: Lacerations on areas where the skin is under tension, such as joints, hands, feet, or the face, require stitches to help maintain both function and appearance.

• Animal Bites or Puncture Wounds: These types of injuries often require stitches due to the risk of infection.

• Injuries Exposing Tissues: Wounds that expose fat, muscle, or bone usually require careful evaluation and sutures.

If the injury is caused by a dirty or rusty object, visiting Scioto Urgent Care is critical to assess the risk for infection or tetanus.

When to Seek Medical Help:

 If your wound is serious, extremely painful, or shows signs of infection—such as redness, swelling, or pus—it’s important to seek prompt care. At Scioto Urgent Care, our experienced medical team will assess your injury and determine whether stitches are necessary to ensure optimal healing. Don’t wait—get the treatment you need for a safe and speedy recovery.

If you have a cut that may need stitches, you might be wondering whether to visit Scioto Urgent Care or head to the emergency room. In many cases, Scioto Urgent Care is fully equipped to handle minor to moderate lacerations that require stitches. Our experienced medical team is trained in wound care and suturing, and we have the necessary supplies to safely clean, numb, and close most cuts.

Urgent care is often a faster and more affordable option than the emergency room for non-life-threatening injuries. At Scioto Urgent Care, we can treat cuts that are clean, not excessively deep, and less than a few inches long. If the cut is not located on the face, hands, or genitals, and you are able to control the bleeding with gentle pressure, urgent care may be the right choice. Additionally, if there is no exposed bone, tendon, or severe contamination, we can provide timely and effective treatment.

However, there are situations where the emergency room is a better option. If the wound is very deep, is bleeding heavily and will not stop with pressure, or was caused by an animal or human bite, it’s important to go to the ER. Wounds that have foreign objects embedded in them or those located on sensitive areas like the face, joints, or genitals require emergency care. If you experience signs of shock, difficulty breathing, or other serious symptoms, seek emergency care immediately.

At Scioto Urgent Care, the time required for a stitches (suturing) procedure can vary depending on several factors, including the size, location, and complexity of your wound, as well as your overall health. For most straightforward cuts, the process of cleaning the wound and placing stitches typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes. This includes numbing the area with a local anesthetic, thoroughly cleaning the wound to reduce the risk of infection, and expertly closing the skin with sutures.

If your wound is more complex, involves deeper tissues, or is in a location that requires special attention, the procedure may take a bit longer. Additionally, please keep in mind that your total visit time at Scioto Urgent Care may be affected by factors such as check-in, waiting room times, and receiving post-procedure care instructions.

If you have any questions or concerns about how long your specific stitching procedure might take, our experienced team at Scioto Urgent Care is here to help. Don’t hesitate to ask your provider for a personalized estimate based on your unique situation. Your care and comfort are our top priorities.

After receiving stitches at Scioto Urgent Care, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on your wound for any signs of infection. While some redness and swelling are normal in the first few days after getting stitches, there are certain symptoms you should watch out for, as they may indicate an infection.

Common Signs of Infection:

• Increasing Redness or Swelling: If the redness or swelling around the wound worsens over time, it may be a sign of infection.

• Pain That Gets Worse: Some pain is normal, but if the pain becomes more intense rather than improving, it could be a concern.

• Warmth at the Site: If the area around the stitches feels warmer than the surrounding skin, it may indicate an infection.

• Discharge or Pus: Any discharge from the wound, especially if it is yellow, green, or foul-smelling, is a red flag for infection.

• Red Streaks: If you notice red streaks running from the wound, it may suggest that the infection is spreading through the skin.

• Tenderness: Increased tenderness or sensitivity at the wound site can also be a sign of infection.

• Fever or Chills: A fever or chills often indicate that the infection is spreading and your body is fighting it off.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Contact Scioto Urgent Care, where our experienced providers will assess the wound and determine the appropriate treatment. We can help manage infections and ensure you receive the care needed to heal safely and effectively. Don’t delay—early intervention can prevent further complications and promote a quicker recovery.

If you have a cut that needs stitches, Scioto Urgent Care in Columbus, OH, is here to help. Dr. William Rothe, M.D., offers quick, professional treatment for all types of wounds, from deep cuts to gaping lacerations.

When to Seek Stitches:

• Deep or long cuts
• Wounds with gaping edges
• Persistent bleeding

Why Choose Scioto Urgent Care:

• Fast and affordable care
• Expert providers like Dr. Rothe
• Convenient, local location

Get the care you need at Scioto Urgent Care. Visit us today for trusted stitch care in Columbus! For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4760 Sawmill Road Columbus, OH 43235. We serve patients from Columbus OH, Dublin OH, Upper Arlington OH, Hilliard OH, Worthington OH, and surrounding areas.