Warnings and Common Errors for Removing a Ring With a Ring Cutter Be aware of signs of finger ischemia, which is usually caused by the ring and indicates an urgent need to remove the ring: Mottling Blue-gray or white color of the distal digit Very prolonged or absent capillary refill No distal pulse by pulse oximetry Severe pain Tips and Tricks for Removing a Ring With a Ring Cutter Remind the patient to remove all rings before finger edema develops and is extensive enough to cause pain or vascular compromise if there is ever risk of a finger injury.