KIDS Urgent Care

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Infected Cuts & Wound Care for Kids

Redness, swelling or pus around a cut? Our pediatricians can check for infection, clean the wound and start treatment the same day.

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Nurse in gloves checking a scrape on a boy's knee before cleaning it

Signs a Cut Is Infected

Most dirty wounds that become infected do so 24 to 72 hours after the injury. Watch for:

  • Pus or cloudy drainage
  • Redness that spreads around the wound
  • A red streak running from the wound
  • Swelling or pain that gets worse after the first 48 hours
  • Fever
  • A swollen, tender lymph node nearby
  • A wound that hasn’t healed after 10 days

Fresh cut that may need stitches? See Lacerations & Stitches.

Pediatrician wrapping a clean bandage on a girl's arm while her father watches

When to Get Care

Come in now if:

  • Your child has a fever
  • There’s a red streak coming from the wound
  • Redness is spreading
  • The pain is severe
  • An infected-looking wound is on the face
  • Your child has never had a tetanus shot
  • Your child looks or acts very sick

Come in within 24 hours if:

  • There’s pus or cloudy drainage
  • The pain is getting worse after 2 days
  • Your child’s last tetanus shot was more than 5 years ago
  • The wound had contact with soil or dirt

Call 911 if your child is too weak to stand, won’t move, has trouble breathing or doesn’t respond normally.

What Happens During Your Visit

A pediatrician examines the wound and asks how and when it happened. The wound is gently cleaned and dressed. If it’s infected, your pediatrician explains the treatment, such as antibiotics, and how to care for it at home. We also check whether your child needs a tetanus shot, and you leave knowing what to watch for and when to come back.

Why a Red Streak Matters

A red streak spreading from a wound can be a sign the infection is spreading. Don’t wait for it to get better on its own. Have your child seen right away, especially if they also have a fever.

Why Families Choose KIDS Urgent Care

Every child is seen by a board-certified pediatrician, and we handle stitches, splinting and surgical glue right in the office. We’re open 9 AM to 9 PM, 7 days a week. See all of our pediatric urgent care services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my child's cut is infected?

Look for pus, spreading redness, a red streak, swelling or pain that gets worse after two days, or a fever. Any of these is a reason to have it checked.

Most dirty wounds that get infected show signs 24 to 72 hours after the injury.

Call your doctor if your child’s last tetanus shot was more than 5 years ago and the wound is dirty or deep, or if the wound had contact with soil. Get care right away if your child has never had a tetanus shot.

Yes. A red streak spreading from a wound is a sign the infection may be spreading. Have your child seen right away.

No. Walk in any day from 9 AM to 9 PM, or book an appointment online to hold your place.

Worried About a Cut? Get It Checked Today

Walk in any day from 9 AM to 9 PM, or book an appointment online.

Book an Appointment