Check out some similar questions!

BigJG · May 5, 2007, 12:53 PM

Last night I cut my thumb on a broken dinner plate while trying to wash it. It took a small chunk out of my thumb. Just by looking at it, I don't think it could be stitched up, mainly because it's not a narrow cut or a gash. I apply peroxide as well as a clean bandage to it with neosporin two to three times a day. I was just wondering if anyone knew how long it would take to fully heal, as well as some other things I can do to make it heal more quick, if possible.

J_9 · May 5, 2007, 01:41 PM

First of all you need to stop the peroxide, while it is good to get rid of infection at the beginning, it can cause the laceration to take much much longer to heal.

Now, depending on the depth, and your healing process, it can take a few weeks to heal. If this is a rather large laceration, it probably should have been looked at by a medical professional.

Also, if it is rather large and on your dominant hand, this will cause the healing process to take longer.

Good luck to you and remember when the scab begins to form, it will be necessary to keep it open to the air for the healing process to continue in a natural fashion.

Clough · May 5, 2007, 01:46 PM

Poof! It's Healed!

Just kidding. But, I wish that I weren't!

It sounds to me like you are doing the right things, especially by keeping it moist to promote healing with the Neosporin. But, you may want to take a look at the following site for some information that might be helpful to you.

How to treat wounds | Wound (HEALING) | Cut and Bleeding | First-Aid

J_9 · May 5, 2007, 01:50 PM

Yes, moisture is good to promote healing, however, once the scab appears it needs to remain dry with room air until it heals completely on it's own.

I learned this (and am now certified) in two specific courses A Prescription for Effective Wound Management

And

Physiological Foundation of Wound Assessment

J_9 · May 5, 2007, 02:11 PM

Clough agrees: Okay, so I got beat to the answer. And, it was a better one too. Isn't it correct that it is good to keep a wound somewhat moist in the beginning?

You are absolutely right Clough. It is great to keep a wound moist in the beginning as it does assist in the healing process. However, once the scab is fully formed from the fibrinogen it is imperative to keep it open to the air to complete the healing process.