Removing splinters
Before using tweezers or a needle, try using cellophane tape to remove a splinter. Simply put the tape over the splinter, then pull the tape off. The tape will stick to the splinter and remove it painlessly. If tape doesn't work:
- Wash your hands well with soap and water.
- Grasp the end of the splinter with clean tweezers, and gently pull it out.
- If the splinter is embedded in the skin, clean a needle with alcohol and make a small hole in the skin over the end of the splinter.
- Lift the splinter with the tip of the needle until it can be grasped with the tweezers and pulled out.
- Do not wet or soak the splinter because it will be harder to remove in one piece.
- After the splinter has been removed, clean the wound and watch for any signs of infection.
You may need medical care if the splinter:
- Is very large.
- Is deeply embedded in the skin.
- Cannot be easily removed.
- Is in the eye.
- Broke off and part of it remains in the wound or if you are uncertain if the splinter has been removed.
| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC | Last Updated: June 30, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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