The cut is deep and you can see fat, muscle, bone, or other tissue
The edges of the cut are gaping open and do not close easily
The cut is longer than about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch and appears wide or deep
The bleeding does not stop after 10 to 15 minutes of firm, direct pressure
The cut is on the face, especially if it may leave a scar
The cut is on the eyelid, lip, ear, or near the eye
The cut is on the hand, finger, foot, or over a joint and may affect movement
The cut was caused by a dirty, rusty, or contaminated object
The cut was caused by an animal or human bite
The cut has debris, glass, gravel, or other material embedded in it
The cut is from a puncture, crush injury, or torn skin flap
The cut is very painful, numb, or you cannot move the area normally
The cut shows signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or worsening pain
The cut is in a child and you are unsure whether it needs closure
The cut is still opening when the area moves or stretches
The cut is on a body area where the skin is pulled tight and unlikely to stay closed
The cut happened more than 6 to 8 hours ago and is still open
You are unsure whether the wound needs stitches, glue, or staples