What is what to do when you cut your nail too short?

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Ouch! You Cut Your Nail Too Short! What to Do Now

Cutting your nail too short is a common and painful experience. Here's how to handle it:

  1. Stop the Bleeding: Apply gentle pressure to the affected area with a clean tissue or cotton ball. Elevate your hand (or foot) to help slow the bleeding. This may take a few minutes. If the bleeding is profuse or doesn't stop after 10-15 minutes of direct pressure, seek medical attention.

  2. Clean the Wound: Once the bleeding has stopped, gently clean the area with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or alcohol-based cleansers, which can irritate the sensitive skin.

  3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin or Bacitracin) to help prevent infection.

  4. Bandage the Nail: Cover the nail with a clean bandage to protect it from further irritation and bacteria. Change the bandage daily, or more often if it becomes wet or dirty.

  5. Pain Relief: If you're experiencing pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

  6. Watch for Signs of Infection: Monitor the area for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, throbbing pain, or fever. If you notice any of these signs, consult a doctor immediately.

  7. Let it Heal: Avoid picking at the nail or the surrounding skin. Give the nail time to heal and grow out. This may take several weeks. Keep the area clean and protected during the healing process. Avoid activities that might put pressure on the injured nail.

  8. Preventative measures: Be more careful when cutting nails next time. Do not cut too short and follow the natural curvature of the nail.

By following these steps, you can help prevent infection and promote healing after cutting your nail too short.