Do I need a tetanus shot if my finger is cut by scissors?

Generally, tetanus vaccination is not required if the scissors are clean, the wound is superficial, and the individual has sufficient immunity. However, if the scissors are rusty or contaminated, the wound is deep, or the person lacks effective immune protection, a tetanus shot is necessary. The details are as follows:

If the scissors used are routinely cleaned and maintained, causing only a superficial skin cut with minimal bleeding and neat wound edges, and if the individual has received complete tetanus vaccinations within the past 5–10 years and thus maintains adequate antibody levels, then thoroughly rinsing the wound with saline solution followed by disinfection with iodophor will effectively prevent bacterial colonization, making a tetanus shot unnecessary.

However, if the scissors are rusty or contaminated with dirt or other debris, and the resulting wound is deep, involves significant bleeding, or is contaminated by foreign materials—creating an anaerobic environment—or if the person has never been vaccinated against tetanus or their last dose was administered beyond the protective time window—the risk of infection increases significantly, and a tetanus shot should be administered within 24 hours of injury.

When using cutting tools in daily life, proper precautions should be taken, and tools should be kept clean and dry. Promptly cleaning and disinfecting wounds after injury, knowing one's vaccination history, and receiving regular booster shots to maintain immunity can effectively reduce the risk of tetanus infection.