Broken Finger in Children

Call 911 if: 

• The bone has broken through the skin.
• The finger is bleeding heavily.
• The finger is numb, white, or blue.
• The finger has been amputated or the nail bed is affected.
• The bone has broken through the skin.
• The finger is bleeding heavily.
• The finger is numb, white, or blue.
• The finger has been amputated or the nail bed is affected.

With the right treatment, broken fingers usually heal well. So it's important to see a doctor right away.

Call Doctor If:

• You think your child has broken a finger.

1. Examine the Injury

• Do not try to straighten the finger.
• If the bone has broken through the skin, do not touch it. Drape gauze or a clean diaper over the injury, control the bleeding, and get emergency help.

2. Make a Splint

• Wrap the finger with a soft cloth.
• Splint the wrapped finger by taping it to an adjacent non-broken finger.
• Make sure the splint and wrapping aren't cutting off circulation. Watch for signs such as numbness, warmth, or changes in skin color.

3. Reduce Swelling

• Ice the finger for a few minutes at a time. Wrap ice in a towel or cloth to avoid injuring the skin.
• If possible, keep your child's hand elevated.

4. Get Help

• Go to the pediatrician's office or the emergency room.

SOURCES:

HealthyChildren.org: "First Aid Guide." 

HealthyChildren.org: "Children and Broken Bones."

Eisenberg, A. What to Expect: The Toddler Years, Workman, 1996.