Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a contusion. This is another word for a bruise.
A bruise happens when blood vessels under the skin break. The blood leaks into the tissues and causes pain and swelling. It also causes changes in skin color. This starts as red, blue, or purple, then changes to green or yellow as the bruise heals.
You can also bruise a bone or muscle. This is damage to small blood vessels deeper in the tissues. Blood can be trapped in the muscle or bone. The blood is reabsorbed by the body as it heals. A bone bruise is less serious than a broken bone, or "fracture."
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Rest the bruised area. You can place it on pillows when you rest.
●Slowly increase your activity level as you can.
●Use an elastic bandage or compression clothing (like a compression sleeve or stocking) to help reduce swelling.
●Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel over the painful part. Never put ice right on the skin. Use ice every 1 to 2 hours for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Use for the first 24 to 48 hours after your injury.
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain if needed, such as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●Your joint swells.
●You cannot move or walk because of the pain.
●You have bruises but were not injured.
●You start bleeding.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
