injuries poisoning
Fingertip Fractures
Key Points
When a fingertip is fractured, the nail bed is often lacerated, causing a subungual hematoma, even when the nail is intact. Take anteroposterior, oblique, and lateral x-rays; for the lateral view, separate the affected digit from the others. For most fingertip fractures, wrap the fingertip with a protective covering; it is often needed for 2 weeks. Treat subungual hematomas by puncturing the nail and draining the blood. Repair significant lacerations in the nail bed with sutures; if the nail appears severely injured or deformed, remove the nail before repairing it, then wrap the fingertip in nonadherent dressing. 