How to Extract a Splinter
It's amazing how much a tiny sliver of wood, glass or fiberglass can hurt when it lodges in your skin. Remove a splinter promptly to reduce discomfort and the chance of infection.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Wash your hands and the splinter area with soap and water.
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2
Sterilize a pair of fine-tip tweezers by boiling them in water for 5 minutes, or by holding them over a flame until they are red-hot. Let cool.
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3
Gently pinch the area around the splinter to make it poke up.
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4
If the splinter is under the skin, use a sterilized needle, manicure scissors or nail clippers to cut a tiny opening in the skin.
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5
Grasp the tip of the splinter with the tweezers. Slowly pull it out.
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6
Squeeze the area to encourage blood, which helps to wash out any germs.
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7
Wash the area with soap and water.
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8
If you develop redness, inflammation, a fever or nausea, visit your doctor. A remnant of the splinter may be causing infection.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If it's difficult to see the splinter, ask a friend to hold a magnifying glass over the area while you work.
To protect yourself from splinters, wear work gloves when doing landscaping, construction or rough work.
