In pediatric wound management, what is the approximate infection rate for sutured lacerations?

• A. 0%
• B. 5%
• C. 10%
• D. 2%

Answer: (D)

In pediatric wound care, infection risk after suturing clean lacerations is small when proper technique is used. A typical infection rate is about 2% for easily cleanable wounds closed promptly with sterile methods, thorough irrigation, and careful tissue handling. This low rate reflects that clean, primary closure generally heals well without antibiotics. Antibiotics aren’t routinely needed for uncomplicated clean wounds; they’re reserved for high-risk situations such as contaminated wounds, bites, or immunocompromised patients. That’s why the 2% figure is the best fit among common options, while higher rates like 5% or 10% would be unlikely for clean, well-managed pediatric lacerations, and a 0% rate isn’t realistic.