Childhood finger injuries and safeguards

To understand the epidemiology, sites, and mechanism of finger injuries in children and to consider safety measures.

Accident and emergency department of a children's hospital in Glasgow.

A prospective study was carried out with a specifically designed questionnaire. Altogether 283 children presenting with isolated finger injuries were identified over six months. Available safety measures to avoid or reduce damage from such injuries were considered.

Finger injuries were common (38%) in those under 5 years. Most of these occurred at home (59%), commonly (48%) because of jamming between two closeable opposing surfaces, and mostly (79%) in doors at home and school. The doors were commonly (85%) closed by someone and often (60%) by a child. Sixteen (6%) were treated for amputation.

Finger injuries are common, especially at the preschool age, and are mostly caused by jammed fingers in doors, at home. Safeguards should be considered according to location, like home or institutions, and expense.