Advertisement
question

How should I care for a wound with an embedded object?

American Red Cross
American Red Cross
answer
  • If an object, such as a knife or a piece of glass or metal, is embedded in a wound, do not remove it.
  • Place several dressings around it to keep it from moving.
  • Bandage the dressings in place around the object.
 
  • If it is only a splinter in the surface of the skin, it can be removed with tweezers.
    • After removing the splinter from the skin, wash the area with soap and water, rinsing the area with tap water for about five minutes.
    • After drying the area, apply an antibiotic ointment to the area if the person has no known allergies or sensitivities to the medication and then cover it to keep it clean.
    • If the splinter is in the eye, do not attempt to remove it. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

Continue Learning about First Aid For Wounds

Are you prepared to save a life?
Are you prepared to save a life?
Hopefully, you’ll never be in a situation where someone is suffering life-threatening bleeding. However, uncontrolled bleeding is the leading cause of...
Read More
How should I care for a sucking chest wound?
How should I care for a sucking chest wound? To care for a sucking chest wound, cover the wound with...
More Answers
How should I care for an open abdominal injury?
With a severe open injury, abdominal organs sometimes protrude through the wound. Learn more from ou...
More Answers
How should I care for a major open wound?
How should I care for a major open wound? To care for a major open wound, you must act at once. Lear...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.