Washing Dishes: A Hidden Hazard in Everyday Life

The Incident

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Last winter, I experienced a significant injury when I accidentally severed a tendon in my thumb. The severity of the injury necessitated a complex surgical procedure, during which there was a possibility of needing to extract a tendon from my wrist to repair the damage. Fortunately, that extreme measure was avoided, but I did end up in a cast extending to my elbow, leaving only my remaining four fingers free for tasks like typing—my profession—and writing, which I would have loved to do if I could grasp a pen comfortably. During my recovery, I had to move to a new apartment unexpectedly; however, I’m not seeking your sympathy.

How It Occurred

What I aim to highlight is how easily we can injure ourselves during seemingly innocuous activities at home. My tendon was cut in a split second when a ceramic salad plate shattered in my hands. I was astonished by the amount of blood a fragment of broken pottery could produce; it’s worth noting that scalpels can indeed be made from ceramic materials.

I didn’t rush to the emergency room at the time of the injury. Although the cut was clearly deeper than a typical kitchen mishap, I didn’t think it was possible to sustain such a serious injury while washing dishes. Had I sought medical attention immediately, my tendon could have been repaired right then, sparing me the subsequent surgery, cast, and weeks of physical therapy that culminated in a thumb that functions less effectively than before.

Insights from Parenthood

Those with children can attest that when confronted with significant bleeding, immediate medical attention is warranted. My delayed response—putting novelty band-aids on my profusely bleeding thumb and only seeking help three weeks later, when I realized I couldn’t straighten it—can partly be attributed to my lack of parental instincts. There’s a certain urgency that seems to activate in parents that I didn’t possess.

Recovery from surgery is a tedious process. While painkillers are a small comfort, one must navigate the delicate balance of reporting pain levels accurately; claiming a “10” might raise eyebrows, and being honest could lead you to a recommendation for over-the-counter relief.

A Reflection on Home Accidents

When people inquired about my cast, I often fabricated stories: I was in a bar fight, or I bravely saved a cat. It feels absurd to admit to a dishwashing accident. While onlookers may feign interest, they quickly shift their attention, viewing me as just another accident-prone individual, eager to move on to more thrilling topics. Almost losing a thumb in the kitchen while merely doing the dishes is so mundane and unremarkable.

In the same vein that one drives more cautiously after receiving a speeding ticket, I am attempting to be more careful when home alone. So far, it’s going okay. Just last Saturday, I attempted a DIY solution for a callus using a credo blade, which has illuminated why such tools are banned in nail salons. Thankfully, no serious harm was done, and for now, I remain intact.

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Summary

In summary, the act of washing dishes, often perceived as harmless, can lead to unexpected injuries. My experience serves as a cautionary tale about the hidden dangers in our daily routines and the importance of seeking timely medical attention. Whether you’re navigating parenthood or simply managing life’s daily chores, it’s crucial to remain aware of the potential hazards that lurk in the most mundane activities.


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