After the Fingertip Has Been Repaired
Do not remove the dressing placed on the finger in the emergency room. It must stay clean and dry. The bandage will be removed in the office about five to 10 days later.
Keep the hand elevated higher than the heart. Have your child use a sling when they are walking around. Prop your child's arms on pillows when they are sitting or lying down. This simple step will reduce both swelling and painful throbbing. Ice packs are helpful, too.
he pain usually lessens after the first 48 hours. During the first two days, pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) may be reeded to help with pain. They can be given every four to six hours. Ask the doctor or nurse what dose is right for your child. If pain does not get better after an hour of elevation, ice and pain medicine, contact your child's doctor.
Most fingertip injuries happen when a child is in dirty settings—places where people are at risk for infection, tetanus, etc. If prescribed, antibiotics should be taken as directed to prevent infection.
