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Splinter removal - Overview

Definition of Splinter removal:

A splinter is a thin piece of material (like wood, glass, or metal) that gets embedded just below the top layer of your skin.

Information:

To remove a splinter:

  1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
  2. Use tweezers to grab the splinter. Carefully pull it out at the same angle it went in.
  3. If the splinter is under the skin or hard to grab: Sterilize a pin or needle by soaking it in rubbing alcohol or placing the tip in a flame. Wash your hands with soap. Use the pin to gently remove skin over the splinter. Then use the tip of the pin to lift the end of the splinter out. You will probably still need to use tweezers as in step 2.
  4. Wash the area with soap and water after the splinter is out. Pat it dry. (Don't rub.) Apply antibiotic ointment. Bandage the cut only if it is likely to get dirty. It will heal faster if exposed to the air.

See your doctor if there is inflammation or pus, or if the splinter is deeply embedded. Also, seek medical attention if the splinter is close to your eye.

Click here to see a video on how to remove a splinter.

  • Reviewed last on: 2/7/2010
  • Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Stone DB, Levine MR. Foreign body removal. In: Roberts JR, Hedges JR, eds. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2009: chap 36.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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