Slipping of a knife in the kitchen, an accident with a machine or getting stuck in a door, a finger can get cut or completely severed at any time. In such a situation, whatever people do in panic is often wrong. Doctors say that 99% of people unknowingly commit such mistakes which render the amputated finger incapable of being reattached.
Nowadays, a severed finger can be successfully reattached through microsurgery, but proper first aid is its basis. Let us know what should be done and what should not be done at all if your finger is cut in an accident.
If the finger is completely severed then people often start panicking. But instead of this, one should remain calm and stop the bleeding by applying pressure on the wound with a clean cloth. Keep the hand raised above the heart so that bleeding is reduced. After this, immediately call 108 or ambulance and go to the hospital. Now the most important thing is to save the amputated finger. During this time people make many mistakes.
Mistake No. 1: Squeezing or licking your mouth
Many people press the severed finger in their mouth due to pain or panic. This is the most dangerous mistake. The bacteria present in the mouth reach the finger, the infection spreads and the tissue gets damaged. Doctors say that the cut part should never be allowed to come in contact with the mouth.
Mistake No. 2: Pouring straight into ice or water
People think that ice will provide coolness and the finger will be saved. But placing it directly on ice causes freeze burn, tissue damage and cells die. Similarly, after immersing the finger in water, it swells and becomes difficult to join again. Sources like Healthline and Mayo Clinic say to never put the cut area directly in ice or water.
Mistake No. 3: Tying in tight clothes or ignoring it
Some people tie the severed finger tightly, which stops the blood flow and causes the tissue to rot. Or throw away the finger. All this eliminates the possibility of reattachment.
What is the right advice of doctors?
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), WebMD and the Red Cross, the amputated finger should be cleaned lightly with clean water or saline. This removes the dirt. After this wrap it in clean wet gauze or cloth. Wetness will not let it dry. Now keep it sealed in a plastic bag. Put this bag in another container with ice water. Take care that the finger does not touch the ice directly. If several fingers are cut, place each in a separate bag. This method can keep the finger alive for 12-24 hours.
