Quick Answer
If your wound is clean and your last tetanus shot was within 10 years, no. For dirty wounds (punctures, bites, contamination with soil or rust), you need a booster if it's been more than 5 years. We give the tetanus shot during the same visit if needed, and confirm whether Tdap (which also covers pertussis) is the appropriate version for you.
This question comes up frequently for patients researching burns & lacerations at Good Health NC in Knightdale, NC.
Related Questions
- When should I go to urgent care versus the ER for a cut or burn?
- How long after a cut can I still get stitches?
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- Can a burn be treated at urgent care, or do I have to go to the ER?
- Will an urgent care visit for a laceration cost less than an emergency room visit?
- Do you accept walk-ins?