Hand infections can be delineated by type and location of infection, by a polymicrobial vs single microbial colonization, and by the type of organism. They are most often caused by superficial injury or trauma. Early identification and timely treatment can significantly improve the morbidity associated with hand infections. In addition to determining the source and mechanism of infection, it is important to identify tetanus immunization status, prior injury to the affected area, immune status, occupation, and hand dominance. Some hand infections (eg, paronychia, felon, herpetic whitlow, and cellulitis) can be treated in the emergency department and discharged with close follow-up. Deep space abscesses and infections caused by bite wounds involving tendons will require either observation, admission, or surgery depending on their severity. Take into account a patient’s comorbidities—diabetes, immunosuppression, injection drug use, inability to follow up for re-evaluation, and ability to fill antibiotic prescriptions—upon disposition.