Health Topics for Prepare for Emergencies

Department of Emergency Medicine

Emergency Medical Services Learning Resources Center

Puncture wounds

A puncture wound is an opening or cut in the skin that is usually caused by something pointed and narrow, like a nail or tack. An animal or human bite may also cause a puncture wound. The injury is usually deep with a small opening.

Puncture wounds may easily become infected. Dirt and germs may enter deep under the skin at the time of the injury. Here are 4 important steps to take to care for a puncture wound:

1. Control bleeding. Bleeding helps clean out puncture wounds. Most small cuts will stop bleeding in a short time. If the bleeding does not stop in a few seconds, apply pressure to the area using a clean bandage.
2. Clean the wound by running cool water over it. Use soap and water to clean the skin around the wound. Keep the soap out of the wound itself because it can irritate the wound.
3. Cover the wound with a bandage to keep it clean and dry. Change the bandage each day or whenever it becomes wet or dirty.
4. Watch for signs of infection. Seek medical care immediately if a wound doesn't heal or becomes warm, red, swollen, more painful, or has drainage.

Puncture wounds are at risk for developing tetanus infection. Tetanus is a serious infection that is also known as "lockjaw." A tetanus immunization is recommended as soon as possible, usually within 72 hours of the injury if

• you do not know the last time you had a tetanus shot
• you have never had a tetanus immunization
• it has been more than 10 years since the last tetanus immunization
• the wound is very serious or dirty (wound contains dirt, soil, saliva, or feces) and it has been more than 5 years since the last tetanus immunization

Seek medical care immediately for the following:

• the wound bleeds in spurts, blood soaks through the bandage or the bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes of pressure
• the wound is deep, jagged or gapes open
• the wound is on the face
• the area around the wound feels numb (no feeling)
• the wound has dirt it in that will not wash out
• the wound is from an animal or human bite
• you notice signs of infection or develop a fever

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available.The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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