A Child with Stitches

First Aid and Safety Photos

Although some minor cuts heal on their own without stitches, it can be hard for parents to judge when they do or don't need to go get stitches when their child is cut.

In general, your child may need stitches if the wound:

• won't stop bleeding after 10 minutes,
• is longer than 1/2 inch, and/or
• is gaping open

Because of the risk of scaring, when in doubt about whether or not a cut on the face needs stitches, you should usually have it evaluated by a doctor.