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Health Information and Tools > Patient Care Handouts >  Subungual Hematoma: Care Instructions
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Subungual Hematoma: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

A subungual hematoma is blood under a fingernail or toenail. It's caused by hitting the nail with an object such as a hammer. Or it can happen if you pinch it in a door or drawer. The hematoma can cause throbbing pain in the hurt finger or toe.

Your doctor may have relieved the pain by making a small hole in the nail. This lets the blood drain out. You may have had a shot to prevent a tetanus infection.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

If your doctor told you how to care for your wound, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:

  • Wash the wound with clean water 2 times a day. Keep it clean and dry the rest of the time. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
  • You may cover the wound with a non-stick bandage.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have symptoms of infection, such as:
    • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
    • Red streaks leading from the area.
    • Pus draining from the area.
    • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:

  • You do not get better as expected.
For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter A298 in the search box to learn more about "Subungual Hematoma: Care Instructions".

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

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For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.