Lacerations

Special issues to consider in treating farmworker lacerations – Farmworkers with lacerations may wait longer than other patients before seeking treatment for lacerations, and are likely to return to work in a very dirty environment. Therefore, there should be a high level of concern for infection. In addition, farmworkers who are seen near the end of the season may not be able to return for follow-up visits (removing stitches or assessing healing). A return to work plan that recognizes that the patient is not likely to take time off to heal is likely to be followed more completely.

References:

• McCurdy SA, Samuels SJ, Carroll DJ, Beaumont JJ, Morrin LA. Agricultural injury in California migrant Hispanic farm workers. Am J Ind Med. 2003 Sep;44(3):225-35.

Treatment:

Essentials of Skin Laceration Repair (Forsch, RT, Am Fam Physician. 2008 Oct 15;78(8):945-951.)

Patient Education:

Hand-out on Taking Care of Healing Cuts