My husband was injured at his work. How long for recovery?

Question

My husband remodels homes. He injured his hand with a saw blade today. His thumb and hand are covered in bandages (left hand) and in his right arm is an IV port where they gave him antibiotics through the day. He has to go back to the hospital tonight.

Anyone have any idea how long he will be off work? Of course my larger concern is for his well-being and I am concerned, but at the same time he installed some beautiful French doors and custom woodwork for these people and I hope they won't feel the need to find someone else to do the finish drywall and sanding around their new room.

My husband is sleeping now so I can't ask how many stitches. They said something about digging out some bone. Such descriptions make me a bit queasy and pale so I tend not to ask too many questions, but now I want to know. :-P

Answer 1

Sorry to hear that!!  I have no idea, but you could ask the doctor.  Geez, I just cut my achilles tendon area & had 8 stitches, so they gave me crutches.  It's already been 5 days & I can't walk on that leg at all yet.  I'm not a doctor, but I'd bet he won't be able to use that hand for a couple weeks at least.  Let me know!  I wish you the best!!!!!

Answer 2

Well it depends a lot on the actual structures damaged.  If he damaged bone it would be similar to a broken hand and they may have to cast it, or put pins in.  You, or him need to discuss this with the doctor.  If it is simple stitches I would say 1-2 weeks.  With ligament/tendon damage and bone damage I would lean towards the 6 week range.  If they have an IV port in his arm and they sent him home and he is to return for another round of antibiotics I would certainly think his recovery may be more extensive than a week or two.

Answer 3

Everyone is different, so there isn't a certain recovery time. I don't think it would be much longer than a week though, since doctors can treat wounds quickly and give him the proper treatments. You should have him ask the doctor when he goes back for his appointment. They can probably give you an estimated time frame on when he'll be able to go back to work.