Why Timely Treatment Matters for Cuts That Need Stitches

At Monarch Medicine Urgent Care, we often see patients unsure if their cut or injury truly needs stitches. It’s a common question — and getting it right matters. Stitches help close deeper wounds, promote faster healing, and greatly reduce the risk of infection or scarring. If you’re ever in doubt, trust your instincts and come see us in Carmel, IN — we’ll take great care of you.

Sign 1: The Cut Is Deep or Exposes Tissue

If you can see fat, muscle, or bone — or if the wound won’t stay closed — you likely need stitches. Deep wounds heal best when properly aligned and supported with sutures to minimize scarring and complications.

Sign 2: The Wound’s Edges Are Gaping or Jagged

If the cut edges are uneven, wide apart, or won’t close on their own, stitches help pull them together. This is key for both healing and cosmetic outcomes — especially for facial cuts or cuts on the hands or joints.

Sign 3: The Bleeding Won’t Stop

If steady pressure for 10-15 minutes doesn’t stop the bleeding, head straight to urgent care. Continuous bleeding can signal that deeper blood vessels were damaged, which often requires stitches to control.

Sign 4: The Cut Came From a Dirty or Rusty Object

If your cut came from a tool, a nail, or an animal scratch — or if it’s full of debris — you need medical cleaning and possibly stitches. These cuts carry higher infection risks, and our team will also check whether you’re due for a tetanus shot.

Sign 5: You See Signs of Infection

Redness, warmth, swelling, pus, and increasing pain are warning signs. Even if the cut didn’t initially seem serious, infection can take hold — and delayed stitches or wound care can make a world of difference. If in doubt, come in for a quick evaluation.

How to Handle the Cut Until You Get to Monarch Medicine

1️⃣ Gently rinse with clean water
2️⃣ Apply clean gauze or cloth
3️⃣ Apply firm pressure if bleeding
4️⃣ Keep it clean and covered
5️⃣ Call us or use OnMyWay to let us know you’re coming

When you arrive, Dr. Clay and our team will assess the wound, clean it thoroughly, and apply stitches if needed — right here in our Carmel office.

Why Choose Monarch Medicine Urgent Care in Carmel, IN?

✅ Same-day care for cuts, wounds, and injuries
✅ On-site suturing — no ER needed
✅ Physician-led care every visit
✅ Gentle approach for kids and adults
✅ MyChart integration to share results with your PCP
✅ 30% self-pay discount available

Whether it’s an after-hours kitchen accident or a weekend playground mishap — we’re here for you.

When to Skip Urgent Care and Go to the ER

Some cuts do need emergency-level care:

🚑 Heavy bleeding that soaks through multiple bandages
🚑 Signs of nerve damage (numbness, loss of motion)
🚑 Severe facial wounds near the eye or mouth
🚑 Large or gaping wounds on the scalp

If you’re unsure — call us. We’ll help you triage.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait — Stitches Help You Heal Right

When it comes to cuts and wounds, timely care makes all the difference. Stitches done within 6-12 hours of injury have the best healing outcomes. Don’t “wait and see” — come visit Monarch Medicine Urgent Care in Carmel, IN today. Dr. Clay and our compassionate team will take great care of you.

📍 Call us now: (317) 804-4203
📍 Book ahead with OnMyWay via MyChart
📍 Walk-ins always welcome!

Have questions? Visit our Contact Us page.