Subungual Hematoma

Aftercare

  • Avoid soaking the finger and keep dry for 48 hours, then clean with soap and warm water.
  • Keep the finger elevated above the level of the heart to prevent pain and throbbing.
  • Prepare the patient that the nail may fall off in the days after trephination.

Follow-up

Follow-up is not typically required following subungual hematoma drainage. The patient should be instructed to monitor for signs and symptoms of infection and to return if present.

Patient Education Handout – Subungual Hematoma

License

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Advanced Procedural Skills Copyright © 2018 by Brittany Stephenson NP, BScN, MN is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.