It is imperative to seek medical attention immediately if: • The wound is on the face • The area feels numb • The wound is deep or jagged • Fat, muscle, or bone is visible • The laceration is over a joint • The wound is caused by a bite (animal or human) • It has been more than 5 years since your last tetanus shot You are experiencing signs of infection, such as: • Redness • Swelling • Draining pus • Increased pain or tenderness If you receive a laceration and experience any of the following, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away: • A cut is bleeding severely • Blood is spurting out • Bleeding cannot be stopped or slowed after 10 minutes of continuous, steady pressure Laceration treatment aims to reduce the chance of infection, promote proper and expeditious healing, and prevent permanent scarring.