Emergency rooms are for life-threatening injuries, not for stitches. A cut that requires stitches is not an emergency. If the cut is more than a half-inch deep, was done with a dirty object, or bone is visible, then it requires professional medical attention and should be seen by a doctor. However, if the cut does not meet any of these criteria, it can be safely treated at home. To clean the wound, use soap and water or hydrogen peroxide. Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. Apply a bandage to keep the area clean and protected. If the bleeding doesn't stop after 15 minutes of applying pressure, seek medical attention.