$Unique_ID{BRK01488}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is There Any Special Technique For Removing Splinters?}
$Subject{removing splinters first aid accidents wood splinter work gloves skin
accident remove disinfectant betadine sterile needle tweezer antibacterial
ointment disinfectants needles tweezers ointments}
$Volume{O-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There Any Special Technique For Removing Splinters?


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QUESTION:  I work around wood products, and splinters are a regular thing in
my life.  I can't afford to go to a doctor every time, so I just remove them
myself.  I am wondering if there is any special technique you might know of
that I should use?  I never thought to ask my own doctor.

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ANSWER:  I suppose that suggesting you wear work gloves will go unheeded, so
let me suggest this method.  First carefully clean the area where the splinter
has penetrated the skin.  You can use alcohol or a disinfectant such as
Betadine.  Using a sterile needle, lift the skin around the splinter until it
can be grasped firmly with a fine tweezer.  Once the splinter has been
removed, you can wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.  Complete the
treatment by applying an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment to help
prevent infection.  If the splinter is too deeply embedded below the skin to
be easily removed, your wisest course is to visit the doctor.  In order for
this method to work to your advantage, you should prepare in advance and be
sure you have a supply of sterile needles, a proper tweezer and the
disinfectants and ointment, I have recommended.  And, if I were you, I would
be sure a fellow worker was skilled in the techniques, because it take both
hands to perform correctly, and you may not have both available if the
splinter is in your finger!

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.