How do you tell if a cut needs stitches?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
A cut likely needs stitches if it is deeper than about 1/4 inch, longer than 1/2 inch, gaping open, or still bleeding after 10 minutes of firm pressure. Location raises the stakes: face, joints, and hands usually deserve professional closure, and bites always need review because they infect easily. Wounds close best within six to twelve hours, so make the call quickly. First aid comes before everything: firm direct pressure and elevation to stop bleeding, then rinse under clean running water and clear loose dirt. Never pull out embedded glass or debris yourself - that is an urgent care job. Check your tetanus status too; a booster may be due. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can talk you through the decision in real time.
What to do
- Press firmly for 10 full minutes: peeking early restarts bleeding and muddies the decision.
- Measure depth and length honestly: deep as a pencil eraser or wide open at the edges means get seen.
- Move fast on face, joints, hands, and bites: healing, movement, and infection risk all argue for a clinician.
- Go within 6 to 12 hours: after that window, closing the wound gets harder and infection risk climbs.
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