This post was written by Ashley Wilson, MOT, OTR/L, CHT, occupational therapist, certified hand therapist, Parkview Health.
When we think of Thanksgiving, our minds instantly go to family, football, stuffing, pumpkin pie and, of course, turkey. But no matter what your traditions look like, nothing spoils the joy faster than a hand injury. Don't let your Turkey Day celebrations go "fowl" this year because of an avoidable accident!
To help keep your hands safe and prepared to gobble until you wobble, follow these turkey carving tips from the American Society of Hand Therapists.
-
Always cut away from yourself. A single slip of the knife can lead to a severe injury. When carving a turkey or a pumpkin, position your free hand on the side opposite where you are cutting. Always use a platter or casserole dish and avoid placing your hand underneath the blade to catch the sliced meat.
-
Keep your cutting area well-lit and dry. Good lighting will help prevent an accidental finger cut, and a dry cutting surface will prevent ingredients from slipping while chopping.
-
Wipe down and clear the clutter. Ensure your working space remains clean and dry. Many tendon lacerations occur during post-meal cleanup when slippery glass breaks while doing the dishes.
-
Keep your knife handles dry. A wet handle can be challenging to control and cause your hand to slip down onto the blade, resulting in a serious cut.
-
Maintain sharp cutting tools. A well-honed knife should never require force to cut, chop, carve or slice. Alternatively, consider using an electric knife to make serving a turkey or ham easier. Kitchen shears are an excellent tool for cutting through bones and joints.
Even with the best safety practices, accidents can still happen. Should you cut your finger or hand, apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. Bleeding from minor cuts will often stop on its own and can be managed at home.
However, some injuries may require medical attention. Seek help if:
-
Continuous pressure does not stop the bleeding after 15 minutes
-
You notice persistent numbness or tingling in the fingertip
-
You are unsure of your tetanus immunization status
-
You are unable to thoroughly cleanse the wound by rinsing with a mild soap and plenty of clean water
-
You do not have full range of motion in the hand or finger
Follow these safety tips to ensure your cherished traditions and celebrations remain at the dinner table, not in the emergency room.
For more information, visit the American Hand Society. To learn more about Parkview Therapy Services, visit us here.
