Hands are essential for protection, balance and prevention of serious falls. Not surprisingly, the hand is one of the most frequently injured body parts. When a worker sustains an occupational hand injury the goal is to return the worker to pre-injury function as soon as possible. The key to prevent long term functional disability is early recognition of an injury combined with proper intervention. Improper management and negligence can result in functional loss.
Minor lacerations make up the largest number of hand injuries.
Direct pressure will stop most bleeding. Basic care consists of cleaning the wound with soap and water, applying an appropriate antibiotic ointment, and then covering with a sterile dressing. A physician will decide if an X-ray of the injury is needed. Larger lacerations will be sutured. Puncture wounds including dog and human bites can be troublesome due to their limited accessibility for irrigation and increased potential for infection.