Once toddlers sustain a scrape or cut on his/her finger, a minor infection can quickly develop in most cases. As long as the finger infection is a minor one, it can be managed at home. Just remember to watch out for any signs that the infection is getting worse and consult a doctor if you have any doubts on the severity of the injury. If you want to learn how to properly manage this condition as well as readily determine any signs of infection, read here.
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What are the signs and symptoms?
When it comes to a minor finger infection, it is usually localized. It simply means that it only appears in and around the site of injury and does not spread all over the body. In case the finger injury appears pinkish in color and feels warm to the touch, it is possibly a minor infection. A scrape or cut that does not have any signs of infection only requires cleaning, application of a bandage and monitoring as it heals to check for any signs of a developing infection.
Managing a finger infection
The initial step is to wash the infected finger using water and soap at least once a day. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or cream on the wound after it has been cleaned. Make sure that you will cover the wound with a clean bandage and check that it is not too tight.
Always monitor the injury on a daily basis for any signs of swelling, redness, pain or pus. These are indications that the infection is getting worse and a doctor must be consulted. In case the child is not updated with his/her immunizations, a booster tetanus shot might be given after an injury that can lead to an infection.
Considerations to bear in mind
In case the finger infection does not seem to heal after 3-4 days, it is best to consult a doctor. If the infection enters the bloodstream, it is considered dangerous. Indications that the infection has spread in the body include weakness, fever, chills and sore joints. Take note that the infection can also develop into cellulitis which is a severe form of localized infection. The symptoms of cellulitis typically include shaking, chills, fever, swollen lymph nodes and red-colored streak on the skin. Once the toddler has any symptoms of cellulitis, it requires immediate medical care.
It is a known fact that toddlers are curious about their own bodies, thus it might be hard to prevent the child from exploring his/her injured finger. You have to instruct the child not to pull off the bandage or pick on the wound. You can help him/her wash her hands several times in the day so that the wound will not become contaminated and worsen the infection.