Puncture Wound Infection
Puncture wounds are caused by sharp, pointed objects passing through the skin and other tissues. Puncture injuries are commonly caused by nails, knives, splinters and metal picks. Bleeding is usually minimal externally, but internal bleeding may be severe.
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Penetrating Wound
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A penetrating puncture wound is that in which the object has passed through body tissues and is embedded. Penetrating wounds can be shallow or deep, but will damage the underlying tissues and tend to bleed minimally.
Perforating Wounds
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Perforating puncture wounds are caused by an object that enters the body, passes through the tissues and exits the body. Generally, the exit wound is a more serious injury than the entrance wound and can bleed profusely.
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Infection
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Puncture wounds are easily infected due to the passage of a foreign object into the body tissues. The foreign object can introduce particles, dirt, germs and other infectious materials to the body. As the body attempts to protect itself from the foreign particles, infection may occur.
Recognition of Infection
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Infected wounds will appear red, swollen and hot to the touch. The wound may ooze pus or have a pussy scab around the healing entry site. When advanced infection sets in, the sufferer may feel nauseated and feverish.
Considerations
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Persons suffering from infection of a puncture wound should seek a physician's attention. The wound could require debridement (cleaning) and aggressive treatment with antibiotics to aid in healing.
Warning
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Infected wounds which have red lines running away from the point of injury on the skin indicate the presence of a blood infection. The sufferer must be seen by a physician as a blood infection can be fatal if untreated.
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