Doctor's Notes on Splinters
Splinters are foreign bodies that are partially or fully embedded in the skin. Splinters are usually small pieces of wood but can be any type of material. They are caused by any type of activity or handling materials that have the potential to dislodge pieces with friction. Examples of activities that may cause splinters include woodworking, gardening, metalworking, or walking on a rough wood surface.
Splinters may not cause symptoms. If they do, the signs and symptoms associated with a splinter include
- a visible foreign object beneath the top layer of the skin,
- pain and tenderness at the affected site, and
- the feeling of having a foreign body stuck in the skin.
If an infection develops at the site of a splinter, the area may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
What Is the Treatment for Splinters?
Splinters may be removed at home using sterilized (wipes with alcohol) needles or tweezers. Splinters that are located in or near the eye should be managed by a health care professional. Splinters that are deeply embedded or located beneath a nail may be removed by a health care practitioner under local anesthesia. Antibiotics may be given if there is a likelihood of infection. A tetanus shot may also be necessary.
Trauma and First Aid : Training and Supplies Quiz
QuestionEmotional trauma is best described as a psychological response to a deeply distressing or life-threatening experience.
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First Aid Kits
First aid kits come in all types and varieties depending on their use. There are home, car, work, and travel first aid kits. The essentials for a first kit depends on the type, for example, home first aid kits are used for treating minor injuries like burns, stings, splinters, sprains, and strains. Travel first aid kits need to be more comprehensive to treat fevers, sore throats, cough, etc..Keep your first aid kits in places that are easy to access in emergencies. Moreover, make sure that you know how to use all of the items as instructed. -
Puncture Wound
A puncture wound is caused by a sharp object piercing the skin and can become infected if not treated properly. A tetanus booster may be necessary for some puncture wounds. -
Tetanus (Lockjaw)
Tetanus is an infectious disease caused by contamination of wounds from the bacteria Clostridium tetani, or the spores they produce that live in the soil, and animal feces. Tetanus symptoms and signs include muscle cramps, lockjaw, weakness, and difficulty swallowing. A tetanus shot/vaccine is used to prevent tetanus. Tetanus treatment includes antibiotics, wound cleansing, pain medicine, sedatives to control muscle spasms, and IV fluids.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.