Font Size
A
A
A

Puncture Wound (cont.)

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.



Next: Medical Treatment »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend


Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Wound Care »

This article discusses the management of chronic wounds.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary