dmoran
06-23-2016, 10:26 AM
So far during my build, I've been pretty careful about using eye protection, gloves and not trying to get that one more thing done when too tired. Last night I broke the last two of those rules with less than great results. I was changing drill bits, the drill slipped, I caught it by the trigger and the bit. Luckily, it only tore through the web between my left thumb and index finger with no real damage. After slapping a big Band-Aid on and going through the denial phase, I decided that I really should get it cleaned out and stitched up. It's after midnight so the ER is the only option.
The Dr recommends going with Dermabond, which is like Bondo for people. I like the sound of glue and no needles so we go with that. Since the hack is between fingers that move a lot, I'll need to keep it immobilized for a couple days. Their immobilization solution looks like this:
55261
Talk about overkill! And when I mentioned that it doesn't actually keep the thumb and index finger from moving toward and away from each other, the Dr says, "Well, it will be a good reminder to not to move your thumb."
So - this is the brake line part in case your are wondering - I get home, it's now about 2AM, and I'm thinking about better way to keep that web between my fingers from moving. My solution:
55259
It absolutely works, is surprisingly comfortable and keeps my fingers in the exact position I had to stay in to let the glue dry. It doesn't freak people out when they see it, it's the right shape for my steering wheel and can hold a beer can when the situation arises.
My point is, don't break your safety rules. They apply even more after midnight. And, keep a little unused 3/16" NiCopp tubing, preferably sterilized, in your first aid kit. You do have a first aid kit close by, right?
PS - I'm kind of picky about my fasteners. This morning I picked up some of that clear flexible medical tape to replace the always handy, but way too visible duct tape. Now it's barely noticeable.
55260
Doug
The Dr recommends going with Dermabond, which is like Bondo for people. I like the sound of glue and no needles so we go with that. Since the hack is between fingers that move a lot, I'll need to keep it immobilized for a couple days. Their immobilization solution looks like this:
55261
Talk about overkill! And when I mentioned that it doesn't actually keep the thumb and index finger from moving toward and away from each other, the Dr says, "Well, it will be a good reminder to not to move your thumb."
So - this is the brake line part in case your are wondering - I get home, it's now about 2AM, and I'm thinking about better way to keep that web between my fingers from moving. My solution:
55259
It absolutely works, is surprisingly comfortable and keeps my fingers in the exact position I had to stay in to let the glue dry. It doesn't freak people out when they see it, it's the right shape for my steering wheel and can hold a beer can when the situation arises.
My point is, don't break your safety rules. They apply even more after midnight. And, keep a little unused 3/16" NiCopp tubing, preferably sterilized, in your first aid kit. You do have a first aid kit close by, right?
PS - I'm kind of picky about my fasteners. This morning I picked up some of that clear flexible medical tape to replace the always handy, but way too visible duct tape. Now it's barely noticeable.
55260
Doug