When a Cut Finger Is More Serious Than It Might Seem

Bacteria and other microorganisms can enter the body through a cut in the skin. One kind of infection that can result is tetanus. The first signs of this disease include difficulty opening the mouth - often called lockjaw - and difficulty swallowing.
Dr. Brown says in most cases holding direct pressure with clean gauze or a cloth for 4 to 5 minutes should stop the bleeding. With a cut finger, holding the hand above the heart can reduce the loss of blood.
Even a cut that does not require medical attention must be kept clean to prevent infection. Small cuts should be cleaned gently with clean water. Use a washcloth to clean the area if the wound is dirty. Dr. Brown says cuts should be covered with a clean, dry bandage.
Tetanus can be deadly. But children and adults can be protected against tetanus with vaccinations. Adults should be vaccinated against tetanus every 10 years.
布朗医生表示，在大多数情况下，用一块干净的纱布或织布直接按在伤口上四到五分钟就可以止血。将有伤口的手指举高至心脏以上可以减少出血量。
但如果伤口有血不断涌出，就很有可能是动脉出血。对于这种伤保持干净以防感染。小伤口必须用干净的水小心地清洗。如果伤口有脏污要用毛巾清洗干净。布朗医生说伤口一定要用干燥清洁的绷带包扎。
But if a cut appears to be pumping blood out with some force, this may be a sign of arterial bleeding. This kind of injury should be treated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
细菌和其他的微生虫能通过皮肤表面的伤口进入身体。破伤风便是可能导致的疾病之一。这种疾病的最初症状就是张嘴困难，又叫做牙关紧闭症，以及吞咽困难。
破伤风可致命。但破伤风疫苗可以令儿童和成年人免受其害。成年人应每隔十年接种一次破伤风疫苗。