ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Splinter removal

To remove a splinter first wash your hands with soap and water. Next, use tweezers to grab the splinter and carefully pull it out at the same angle it went in. After the splinter is out wash the area with soap and water. Pat it dry and apply antibiotic ointment. Seek medical attention if there is infection or inflammation, or the splinter is deeply embedded.

Review Date: 2/19/2008
Reviewed By: John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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