Puncture Wound Treatment

Self-Care at Home

• First, check to see that nothing is left in the wound.
  
  
• Check to see if the object that caused the wound is intact. If a piece is missing, it may be stuck in the wound.
  
  
• Allow the wound to bleed freely, but if bleeding is heavy or squirting out, apply pressure until it stops.
  
  
• If bleeding won’t stop, you will need emergency care.
  
  
• The basics of wound care
  
  
  • Stop the bleeding: Minor puncture wounds and cuts usually stop bleeding on their own. If not, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. If the blood spurts or continues after several minutes of pressure, emergency care is necessary.
    
    
  • Clean the wound: First, wash your hands. If your hands are not clean, you may spread bacteria into the wound. Cleanse the wound. Wash with water. You can use a mild soap such as Ivory if the wound is very dirty. If dirt or debris remains in the wound, clean a pair of tweezers with alcohol and remove the dirt. If you cannot get the dirt or debris out, contact your doctor.
    
    
  • Protect the wound: An antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin or Polysporin can be used. Apply a thin layer over the wound. This will help coat and protect the wound. Large amounts of ointment are not helpful because they can attract bacteria. Apply the ointment with a clean swab or gauze. Do not apply directly from the tube in order to avoid contamination of the tube. Ointments can be applied up to 3 times a day, but you should always clean the wound before applying ointment.