Puncture Wounds - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

Overview

• Puncture wounds are injuries caused by sharp objects
• These wounds carry dirt and germs deep into the tissues
• Increases the risk of infection
• Most wounds are minor and may be treated at home
• Some punctures are made by a health professional for disease treatment
• Even if the wound is closed, puncture wounds require treatment

Risk Factors

• Health professionals
• Drug Abusers

Causes

Puncture wound can be caused by -

• Nails
• Needles
• Teeth
• Objects like ice picks, bullets
• Animals, especially pets

Symptoms

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Swelling

Treatment

• Stop the bleeding applying gentle pressure
• Clean the wound
• Try to remove embedded debris carefully
• Soak wound in warm water for 20 minutes
• This should be done 2-3 times a day
• Pat the area dry
• Apply an antibiotic cream
• Apply a bandage
• If the bandage needs to be changed, unwrap carefully
• If the bandage sticks to the body, use warm water to loosen it
• Pat dry and apply fresh bandage
• Change the dressing regularly
• Try to keep the wound above the level of your heart, for 24 hrs
• This quickens healing
• Rest for 3-5 days
• Look out for infection
• Take a Tetanus Toxoid injection, if you have not taken it in 5 years

Consult a Doctor

In case of-

• Human/animal bite
• High temperature
• Bleeding
• Worsening Pain
• Numbness
• Swelling
• Redness
• Pus
• Bad odor

Prevention

• Health professionals should wear gloves whenever required
• Be careful while handling needles/other sharp objects
• Exercise caution while handling pets